Dean Holden, the former manager of Charlton Athletic, is expressing a strong interest in the League Two job at Bradford City, a club that has significant potential but has yet to fully realize it.
It is understood that Holden is one of several potential candidates being considered by Bradford City. The club decided to explore options after parting ways with Mark Hughes earlier this month, as they were struggling in the 18th position in League Two. Discussions have taken place between Holden and the club.
Bradford City has not been in a hurry to make a permanent appointment, mainly due to the impressive performance of their temporary manager, Kevin McDonald, at Valley Parade. McDonald had overseen five games without a defeat until they suffered a significant loss to MK Dons on a Tuesday night, which might hasten the decision-making process.
Kevin McDonald himself has made a positive impression on both the management and players with his composed approach, but he also aspires to transition into a managerial role. However, it’s understood that he has reservations about leaving his playing career behind, especially considering he has a two-year deal. This may lead the club to explore more experienced managerial options, with Dean Holden being one of them.
Dean Holden, aged 43, is enthusiastic about the position and can provide strong references from his time at Charlton, where he played a pivotal role in steering the club away from relegation last season. Known for his excellent man-management skills and a philosophy centered on attacking football, he is eager to make a comeback after his dismissal from Charlton in August.
As for the managerial search at Bradford City, there haven’t been many hints. Speculation about candidates like Neil Redfearn and Karl Robinson has been downplayed, while Graham Alexander, who recently left League Two rivals MK Dons, and Steven Clemence are considered favorites among bookmakers, with Clemence’s odds suddenly dropping on Wednesday morning.
Bradford City has been stuck in League Two since their relegation in 2019, despite having significant potential at Valley Parade. They recently attracted a crowd of 21,552 for a game against Wrexham, which was the sixth-largest attendance in the entire EFL, surpassing that of more than two Premier League clubs. However, despite making the play-offs last season, the team’s performance has yet to match the support from the fans in the current season.
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