1) Bo Henriksen
In his introductory press conference, new permanent Football Director Julius Ohnesorge explicitly stated that Brondby needs to "find its way home" and rebuild a culture driven by "wildness, authenticity, and ambition". The passionate, high-energy Henriksen could be the absolute embodiment of these exact traits. Henriksen's signature management style is built on intense motivation, high pressure, and emotional spark, which is seen as the perfect tactical antidote to Cooper's stagnating tenure. Henriksen is currently a free agent after parting ways with Bundesliga side Mainz 05, and as he already knows the league inside out, he requires no adaptation period.
2) Thomas Norgaard
Norgaard has deep structural ties to the Vestegnen club. As a teenager, he captained Brondby’s junior and youth sides, won the club's youth player of the year award, and was part of the squad under legendary managers like Age Hareide and Tom Kohlert. He frequently credits his entire coaching philosophy to the early advice he received during his developmental years at Brondby. Norgaard built up an impressive tactical resume, which included serving as the assistant manager at Sparta Prague, and has since established Sonderjyske as a highly competitive, modern side playing an attractive 4-2-3-1 system.
3) Thomas Letsch
Thomas Letsch has emerged as a top candidate to replace Steve Cooper at Brondby IF due to his immediate availability and strong historical ties to the club's administrative leadership. Thomas Letsch previously built a highly successful working relationship with Benjamin Schmedes (Brondby's former sports director) during their time together at Dutch club Vitesse, and Letsch, who has extensive experience managing at high levels, including stints with VfL Bochum in the German Bundesliga, is currently a free agent after being released from his duties at Red Bull Salzburg
4) Ian Cathro
Ian Cathro is heavily linked to replace Steve Cooper at Brondby IF because his tactical identity aligns perfectly with the club’s newly stated vision to return to aggressive, high-tempo football. Ian Cathro's tactical blueprint at Portuguese top-flight club Estoril relies heavily on an aggressive, coordinated high press which mirrors the high-octane intensity Ohnesorge wants to bring back to Brondby Stadion. He was recently named the Portuguese Primeira Liga Manager of the Month, highlighting his ability to overperform against financially dominant opponents.
5) Henrik Rydstrom
Rydstrom won back-to-back Swedish league titles (2023 & 2024) and the Swedish Cup with Malmo FF. He is known for his dynamic and innovative tactical approach. Brondby’s board values his emphasis on high-intensity, possession-based football, which aligns with the club's traditional playing identity. Rydstrom was most recently the head coach of the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer, and his recent availability positions him as a realistic target for a quick transition back to European football. In addition, Rydstrom's ability to maximize squad potential makes him an ideal fit to replace Cooper.