"Next England boss" - Five Leading Contenders to Replace Steve Borthwick

England’s 23–18 defeat to Italy in Rome exposed issues that appear far deeper than a brief downturn in form. When the final whistle sounded, England’s players looked shell-shocked as Italy celebrated a historic first win over them — and suddenly the word 

crisis didn’t seem exaggerated.

Three consecutive defeats have left England struggling through the Six Nations and heading into next weekend’s clash with France as heavy underdogs. Another loss would see them suffer four defeats in a single Six Nations campaign for the first time.

And the schedule offers little relief. After France, England face a daunting away trip to take on world champions South Africa at altitude.

In short, things could still get worse before they improve.

So if the RFU decided it was time for a change, who could realistically step in as England’s next head coach?

A serial Six Nations winner with Wales and three-time British & Irish Lions head coach, Gatland is the ultimate international operator. His teams are built on defensive steel, ruthless conditioning and tournament nous. An “old hand” who knows exactly how to win in the northern hemisphere cauldron.

England need structure, clarity and bite. Gatland guarantees all three. He would command instant respect and strip things back to basics.

Pragmatic, attritional rugby won’t thrill Twickenham. And would England really turn to a coach so closely tied to Welsh success?

Safe hands, short-term fix. If England want stability before the next World Cup cycle, Gatland is plug-and-play.

The architect of the Crusaders dynasty and recently moved on from the All Blacks role. Innovative, charismatic and attack-minded, Robertson built one of the most dominant provincial teams in history.

England’s attack has stagnated. Robertson would bring tempo, invention and belief. His man-management is widely praised, and his personality could reset the national mood overnight.

Little northern hemisphere experience. The English media glare is relentless.

High ceiling, high drama. A statement appointment — and perhaps the bold reboot England crave.

Head coach of Northampton Saints and arguably the most progressive English coach in the Prem right now. Dowson has built a young, ambitious Saints side playing fearless, fast rugby.

He understands the English player pool intimately and promotes youth without fear. His brand of rugby aligns with where the modern Test game is heading.

No Test experience. The jump from club to international is vast — and unforgiving.

The project pick. If the RFU want a long-term identity shift, Dowson is the developmental gamble.

Currently defence guru with France, Edwards has built some of the most ferocious defensive systems in modern rugby. A league legend turned union mastermind, he has openly stated his desire to be a head coach.

England’s defensive edge has dulled. Edwards would restore aggression and clarity. His standards are famously uncompromising.

Limited head coach pedigree at Test level. Defence alone doesn’t solve creativity issues.

Culture shock appointment. Could reignite England’s identity — but needs the right attacking lieutenant.

The man who led England to Rugby World Cup glory in 2003. Since stepping away from coaching, Woodward has been an outspoken critic of successive regimes.

Proven winner. Understands English rugby’s machinery better than anyone. If standards have slipped, he knows what elite looks like.

Two decades removed from frontline coaching. The modern game has evolved dramatically.

Romantic but risky. A nostalgia play that would dominate headlines — but success is far from guaranteed.