Sheffield United have confirmed the appointment of former Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic as their new manager. The Serbian is the club’s first overseas manager and he will take charge next season as the Blades look to rebuild following their relegation from the Premier League.
The club have been overseen by Paul Heckingbottom for their final few weeks in the top flight following the departure of Chris Wilder earlier in the year.
Since leaving Fulham in 2019, Jokanovic has been in charge at Qatari side Al-Gharafa. Despite being well travelled as a manager, he has had particular success in England, guiding both Fulham and Watford into the Premier League.
As well as his efforts in England, he has taken charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel, Hercules in Spain, Bulgarian side Levski Sofia, Muangthong United in Thailand and his former playing club Partizan Belgrade in Serbia.
However, he expressed his excitement at returning to England and coming back for a third stint in the Championship.
He said: “I’m honoured to become the manager of this historic football club and I’m grateful to Prince Abdullah bin Mosa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Yusuf Giansiracusa and Stephen Bettis for trusting in me to start this new chapter for the Blades. We all share the same long-term vision, passion and ambition for Sheffield United.
“I’m excited to work in English football again and I’m looking forward to getting started with the players and staff, as well as meeting our passionate, loyal supporters as we prepare for the challenge in the Championship.
“I want to assure our amazing fans that we’re fully committed to helping the team achieve its goals and make you feel proud. With your support, we can make Bramall Lane a fortress and I have no doubt that your voice will make a big difference to the team after so long without you last season.”
This early appointment is a good sign for Sheffield United. Now that they have a manager in place, Jokanovic can build the squad he desires and has plenty of time to do so with the transfer window yet to officially open.