Key Takeaways:
- Fulham have failed to win any of their opening six Premier League matches this season, securing just two points from draws against Liverpool and Manchester United
- Thomas Frank has been identified as the top candidate to succeed Alvaro Arbeloa should Fulham decide on a managerial change
- The next two fixtures, against Hull City and Coventry City, are likely to determine Arbeloa’s future at Craven Cottage
Frank Emerges as Favourites to Replace Under-Pressure Arbeloa
Thomas Frank, the former Tottenham Hotspur manager, has been established as Fulham’s primary target to replace Alvaro Arbeloa, should the club choose to part company with the embattled Spanish manager. After a dire start to the Premier League campaign, Fulham remain winless and anchored to the bottom of the league, intensifying speculation over Arbeloa’s immediate future in west London.
Uppgifter: Frank aktuell för Fulham.
https://t.co/mmZuzK40wK https://t.co/Fl8wNpPgiH
— Fotbollskanalen (@fotbollskanal) October 13, 2026
Fulham’s Troubling Start and Internal Unrest
The Cottagers’ struggles have been compounded by a 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town in stoppage time last weekend, further denting the morale within the squad. Having amassed only two points from six fixtures — courtesy of draws with Liverpool and Manchester United — the club’s hierarchy have grown increasingly wary of the perilous situation. Reports have also surfaced of growing tensions between Arbeloa and several senior players, exacerbating an already precarious scenario in the dressing room. Despite mounting criticism and speculation, Arbeloa dismissed claims that he was struggling under pressure following the latest defeat.
Managerial Shortlist and Financial Considerations
Thomas Frank, who left Tottenham in February, is the clear favourite to take over if Fulham move on from Arbeloa. Frank had previously attracted attention from the club over the summer after Marco Silva’s exit to Benfica, though his anticipated wage demands are reported to be significant. Alongside Frank, former Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna is another option under consideration by the Fulham board, forming part of their contingency planning.
Crucial Fixtures Loom for Arbeloa
Fulham’s upcoming schedule could prove decisive for Arbeloa’s tenure at the helm. The immediate challenge comes with a vital home encounter against newly-promoted Hull City on Saturday, followed by an away fixture at Coventry City. Achieving maximum points in both matches appears critical, as failure to do so may prompt the club to act before the November international break.
