Next Derby Manager: Who could replace Eustace if Burnley swoop?

We take a look at the contenders to be the next manager of Derby County following reports linking manager John Eustace with a move to Burnley.

Eustace took over at Pride Park in February 2025 after opting to leave his role at Blackburn Rovers and he was successfully able to lead the Rams to Championship safety.

The 2025/26 season saw Derby miss out on a play-off place on the final day as Eustace transformed the squad into top-six contenders.

His spell in the East Midlands has caught the attention of Burnley, who are looking for a replacement for Scott Parker following their relegation from the Premier League.

Here are our top five contenders to be the next Derby manager in the event that Eustace moves to Turf Moor this summer.

Next Derby County Manager Contenders

John Mousinho

John Mousinho has been linked with the vacant Bristol City managerial position following his impressive work at Portsmouth and he could also be a great fit for Derby.

Mousinho has stabilised Portsmouth in the Championship over the last two seasons despite having to work with a limited transfer budget.

He has a League One promotion on his CV and he could be tempted by a move to a club with aspirations of promotion next season.

Russell Martin

Russell Martin's ill-fated tenure at Rangers lasted just 17 matches before he was dismissed in October 2025.

Martin has enjoyed a break from management and he will know that his next move needs to be the right one following a disappointing end at both Rangers and Southampton.

The former Scotland international has a reputation of implementing a possession-based style of football and Derby could be the right environment for him to rebuild his career.

Sean Dyche

A move for the former Nottingham Forest manager would certainly raise eyebrows in the East Midlands.

Dyche has developed a reputation of being a firefighter in the Premier League and he may be looking more long-term for his next position.

A Championship team who have the potential to challenge at the top end of the division could appeal for Dyche's next move.

Liam Rosenior

Liam Rosenior led Derby on an interim basis in the early stages of his coaching career and a return to Pride Park could suit both parties.

Rosenior developed a solid reputation at Hull City and Strasbourg but he looked lost during his short reign at Chelsea before his sacking last month.

He will want to rebuild his career and re-establish his reputation in his next position and the familiar surroundings at Derby are likely to appeal.

Lee Carsley

Former Derby midfielder Lee Carsley has been linked with a number of positions in recent months.

Thomas Tuchel's contract extension with England may sway Carsley's thinking if he was offered a job in club management.

Carsley is a two-time European Under 21 Championship winner with England and his coaching credentials will surely result in a move into senior management in the not-too-distant future.