Emerse Fae is interested in becoming the next manager of Hibernian. The 2023 African Manager of the Year is seeking a swift return to club management after leaving his role with the Ivory Coast national team.

Fae led Ivory Coast to the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2023 and took them to the knockout stages of the World Cup this summer. His final match in charge was a last 32 defeat to Norway. He stepped down from the post after that tournament success, having been named the continent's top coach.

His potential candidacy emerges as Hibernian begin their search for a permanent successor to David Gray. The Scottish Cup-winning legend was sacked earlier this week after a run of six consecutive home defeats. The final match, a 1-0 loss to Kilmarnock at Easter Road on Tuesday, prompted owner Ian Gordon to act. That result leaves Hibs ninth in the Premiership with six points from six games, 12 points behind leaders Celtic.

Sporting director Malky Mackay is leading the process to identify the new boss. In the interim, John Potter will take charge of the team for Saturday's Premiership fixture against Aberdeen at home. Potter will be assisted by Darren McGregor, Gareth Evans, Scott Thomson, and Guillaume Beuzelin.

Interim plans

Potter acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the club's immediate future. "It's a little bit unsure at the moment," he said. His focus is purely on preparing the squad for the weekend. "It's 'take the game' so making sure we're organised on Thursday and Friday, and making sure we're good to go for Saturday."

He emphasised that his role is to prepare the team for the match against eighth-placed Aberdeen, with decisions about the longer-term future resting with the club's hierarchy. "It's important that we're prepared, we'll take the game, and then after that, it's up to the people at the club to decide."

Following Saturday's match, the squad is scheduled to depart for a training camp during the extended international break. Potter confirmed plans are in place but did not know if he would be asked to lead the trip. "The international players are away, there's a plan in place, and then we'll just react to whatever happens," he stated.

The club's recent form shows two wins and three losses in their last five league matches. They have scored seven goals and conceded ten this season. Key players currently sidelined include Jordan Obita, Marko Ivezić, Kanayochukwu Megwa, and Rocky Bushiri. The full schedule of upcoming matches, including the post-international break fixtures, is available on the fixtures list.

Fae's interest provides a high-profile option for Hibernian as they look to stabilise and climb the standings. The 42-year-old's immediate availability and proven track record in international football present a distinct profile compared to other potential candidates. The club's next permanent manager will inherit a squad that has shown attacking promise, with Chris Wright the top scorer so far with two goals, but one that has struggled for consistency at home. The decision on who leads the training camp next week will offer the first clue to the direction the club's ownership intends to take.

Background and full detail: Daily Record Football