Burnley is on the hunt for a new manager following Vincent Kompany’s unexpected move to Bayern Munich. Craig Bellamy, a former Celtic striker, emerges as a top candidate to succeed Kompany at the helm of the Clarets. The club is actively seeking a replacement for Kompany after his surprising departure to Bayern Munich.

Speculations surrounding potential candidates like Frank Lampard, Scott Parker, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, and even David Moyes have been circulating in recent weeks. However, reports suggest that Bellamy’s chances of landing the permanent role are on the rise as he steps in as acting head coach on an interim basis. Bellamy has been part of Burnley’s coaching staff since joining as Kompany’s assistant in the summer of 2022. Having worked under Kompany previously at Anderlecht, Bellamy is well-acquainted with the club, players, and the existing system—a factor that could work in his favor.

Despite lacking prior managerial experience, Bellamy is gaining traction as a favorable choice internally at Turf Moor. Known for his fiery playing style and occasional clashes with managers during his playing career, Bellamy is backed by some, including former Aberdeen boss Neil Warnock, to transition successfully into coaching.

Peter Crouch, Bellamy’s former strike partner at Liverpool, noted a change in Bellamy’s temperament and emphasized his dedication to football. While Bellamy remains a contender, Frank Lampard currently leads the race for the Burnley job. The former Chelsea and Everton manager is the front runner with odds of 2/5, ahead of Bellamy at 3/1. Lampard, who last coached at Chelsea, winning just one of his 11 games as interim boss, has been without a managerial role since the conclusion of the 2022/23 season.