12 Candidates Who Could Be Sunderland's Next Manager

6. Aitor Karanka

Aitor Karanka was exactly the right man for Middlesbrough. He brought a feel-good factor to Teesside when he took up his first managerial role after leaving Real Madrid where he was the assistant manager. He is undeniable proof that young coaches can make the leap into becoming exciting managers. Karanka led Boro to the Playoff final this season. Unfortunately for them, they fell at the final hurdle, but Karanka could be a great prospect for a Premier League team looking for a project. He's in the North East already, so he will have grasped the attitudes of the people, and could be a great acquisition if Sunderland were to pounce.