Leeds Rhinos: Fans reveal who they want as new head coach – one name stands out

The news that Rohan Smith has left the Leeds Rhinos sent debate into a frenzy. Whilst Smith faced serious pressure following the Rhinos’ defeat against Hull FC, there had still been some doubt as to whether the Rhinos would choose to replace him immediately. 

But the news that Smith has left his role has kicked the rumour mill into overdrive, with fans and pundits alike speculating on who will be the next Rhinos job. Despite their struggles in recent years, the size and history of the club means it remains one of the biggest jobs in Super League.

As a result, there will be no shortage of candidates, keen to be the person who can return the club to its former glories. Leeds showed in the last close season that they are willing to back their head coach with big signings, such as Brodie Croft.

With that in mind, we have scoured social media to see who Leeds fans want as their new head coach. There is a clear favourite among the replies.

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Leeds Rhinos fans reveal who they want as head coach

According to reports, there are a number of experienced coaches interested in the job. One name who has repeatedly been mentioned is former Parramatta Eels coach, Brat Arthur. Arthur has a track record of success in the NRL and has recently expressed an interest in coaching in Super League.

It also appears that he would be a popular choice with the Leeds Rhinos fans. One fan states: “Brad Arthur looks to be favourite”

Brad Arthur looks to be a favourite , as is available. Cannot see Paul Rowley moving from Salford. (But of course, money talks)

— Glenn Waterworth (@WaterworthGlenn) June 19, 2024

The Rhinos Fauthful fan account believes that Danny McGuire should come in for the remainder of the season, before working under Arthur as assistant, in a similar arrangement which saw Paul Wellens groomed for the top job at St Helens.

Danny McGuire for the rest of the season, with Brad Arthur to come in in 2025 with McGuire working underneath him.

— Rhinos Faithful 💙💛 (@RhinosFaithful) June 19, 2024

Justin Holbrook is another name which has been mentioned. For this fan, he should be in the running alongside Arthur.

Brad Arthur or Justin holdbrook for me

— Jordan Hanson (@jordanh4970) June 20, 2024

Lee Briers is currently working as an assistant coach in the NRL. However, one fan would like to see him move back to Super League and take on the reigns at the Rhinos.

Gonna be Lee Briers isn’t it 🤔

— AndyWC (@andywc1980) June 19, 2024

Over on the Serious About Rugby League Facebook page, Arthur is also a popular choice. However, he does not have an overwhelming majority of support. Fans also name Jason Demetriou, Steve McNamara and Kevin Sinfield as their dream candidates for the role.

Consensus emerges behind Paul Rowley

However, judging by the comments online, there appears to be a consensus building behind Paul Rowley as the ideal candidate for the role. Rowley is the current head coach of the Salford Red Devils and has a strong working relationship with new Leeds Sporting Director, Ian Blease.

Judging by fan sentiment, Rowley seems to be both the popular and the logical chouse.

Set up for Paul Rowley now isn’t it

— Elvis Eckardt Recruitment (@ElvisEckardtRec) June 19, 2024

One fan also suggests that, if Rowley does take the Leeds job, then Marc Sneyd may be set to follow him.

It’s obviously Paul Rowley at Salford. Is Sneyd next? Frawley is terrible!

— Rugby League J-Man: the Truth 🇬🇧 🇺🇸 🏉 ⚽️ (@SavileThe) June 19, 2024

Danny McGuire’s name as a potential assistant to Rowley has been suggested by several fans and it appears the Rhinos fan base is keen for the club legend to return to Headingley in the new setup.

Paul Rowley with Danny Mcguire as assistant coach

— Steve (@Steve72Outdoors) June 19, 2024

Paul Rowley 😉

— Peter Smailes (@outlawtweeter) June 19, 2024

According one fan, Rowley to Leeds is the game’s “worst kept secret”.

Paul Rowley. The games worst kept secret

— Vinny (@VinnyP_MOT) June 19, 2024

On the Facebook page, there is more support for Rowley with McGuire as his assistant, woth one fan writing:

“Only one person for the job. Paul Rowley and he have [sp] Danny McGuire as assistant and get Sinfield back”.

The Rhinos fan base appears to have spoken. If they club were to make the appointment based on popular opinion, then Rowley would be the stand out candidate.