Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has emerged as a surprise candidate to take over as head coach of Italian club AS Roma following the departure of Ivan Juric.

The club parted ways with Juric on Sunday, soon after their loss to Bologna, which left them 12th in Serie A with only three wins in their first 12 games.

Juric, who replaced Daniele De Rossi at the start of the season, leaves with the club struggling to make an impact in the league.

Roma acknowledged Juric’s dedication during his tenure, stating, “He handled a difficult environment with the utmost professionalism, and for that we are grateful. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

While the club is searching for a new head coach and aims to make an announcement soon, reports from TEAMtalk indicate that Lampard is a surprising yet discussed candidate for the role.

Lampard, 46, spent the majority of his illustrious playing career with Chelsea and has since managed Derby County, Everton, and Chelsea.

Known for his passion and commitment to the game, Lampard’s potential appointment would bring a fresh, dynamic energy to the Serie A side.

However, former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is understood to be Roma’s top choice. Mancini, who recently left his post as head coach of the Saudi Arabia national team, is also a strong candidate with significant Italian football experience.

For Chelsea fans, seeing Lampard take on a role with a historic club like Roma would be a new chapter in the storied career of one of their all-time greats. It remains to be seen if Lampard will get the nod, but his name in the mix is a testament to his enduring reputation in the football world.