Bristol City chief confirms manager talks after key appointment with Portsmouth boss in frame for role
The Championship outfit have updated on their manager hunt, after announcing the former Arsenal man’s arrival at Ashton Gate.
Bristol City have confirmed managerial talks as John Mousinho remains in the frame to become their new boss.
And the Robins has revealed new sporting director James Ellis is leading the search for Gerhard Struber’s successor, as they announced the arrival of the former Arsenal technical director at Ashton Gate.
Bristol City chief: Excellent groundwork identifying and meeting candidates’
Mousinho is still in the picture for the Bristol City job, with The News reporting on Saturday the club are believed to have activated clauses in the contracts of a number of potential candidates to speak to them over the vacant post.
The club’s chief executive, Charlie Boss, confirmed Ellis is orchestrating that search and is ‘identifying and meeting’ those in contention.
In a statement on Bristol City’s website this morning, Boss said: I would like to update you on the progress we have made over the past two weeks, as we look to appoint Roy (Hodgson’s) successor.
‘I am delighted to be able to tell you that James Ellis – the former technical director of Arsenal – will join us as our new sporting director ahead of the 2026-27 season.
‘I can also confirm he has already been advising on candidates for the head Coach role. He has done some excellent groundwork in identifying and meeting with those candidates.
‘Once the 2026-27 campaign is underway, he will oversee coaching, recruitment, performance, medical and the Academy.
‘In the meantime, his focus will be entirely on both the appointment of a new head coach and in shaping our business over the transfer window.
‘Please have a safe and enjoyable summer and we will update you as soon as we have news on our new head coach.’
While Mousinho continues to be linked with Bristol City, The News also reported on Saturday there is another unnamed Championship club also keen on the 40-year-old.
The Pompey boss remains in his position at Fratton Park, however, and has been continuing work for the new season with no official approaches from any suitors made for his services.
Mousinho cancelled a scheduled briefing with local media at the end of last week and, when last speaking with The News, stated what happens over clubs making a move for his services is not within his or Pompey’s control.
He said: ‘I want to get across the future for me is obviously relevant, but it’s out of everyone’s control to a certain extent.
‘What I don’t want to do is disrespect our amazing fans and say I’ll be here forever and a day, because I don’t know. I don’t know one way or the other.
‘There’s been times here when I’ve felt lucky to have my job.
‘We’re talking about player sales this summer and how we can move on in terms of that model. Unfortunately or fortunately or however you look at that, it happens with head coaches, too.
‘There’s been times when coaches and managers mug fans off - I never want to do that.’