Kim Hellberg addresses Crystal Palace links amid Middlesbrough speculation

Kim Hellberg has addressed speculation linking him with the Crystal Palace managerial job, insisting his attention remains firmly on Middlesbrough’s promotion ambitions.

The Swedish manager has quickly established himself as one of the Championship’s most highly regarded coaches since arriving at the Riverside Stadium, with his side mounting a serious challenge for promotion to the Premier League.

Middlesbrough have enjoyed an impressive opening to the 2026/27 campaign, sitting second in the Championship table heading into the November international break.

With eight victories, five draws and just two defeats from their opening 15 matches, Hellberg’s team have given supporters plenty of reasons to believe they can finally secure a return to the top flight.

They are level on points with leaders Birmingham City and third-placed Stoke City, leaving the promotion race finely balanced.

Boro will be hoping to maintain their momentum when they return from the international break for back-to-back fixtures against Bristol City and Swansea City.

However, their impressive form has also attracted attention elsewhere, with Crystal Palace reportedly considering Hellberg as a potential candidate for their managerial position.

The Eagles are facing uncertainty over Pierre Sage’s future following a difficult start to the Premier League season, with the Frenchman reportedly close to losing his position.

Kim Hellberg responds to Crystal Palace speculation

According to Sky Sports, Hellberg is among several managers being considered by Crystal Palace as they assess their options.

Other names reportedly on their radar include Thomas Frank, Sean Dyche, Frank Lampard and Swansea City manager Vitor Matos.

The speculation represents another indication of how highly Hellberg’s work at Middlesbrough is being regarded.

The 38-year-old has previously spoken about his ambition to manage in the Premier League, but he could potentially achieve that objective by guiding Boro to promotion this season.

Speaking to Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen about the reported Palace interest, Hellberg played down the speculation and made it clear that his immediate priority has not changed.

He said:

“Absolutely nothing, absolutely nothing.

“It’s always nice to be on lists like that, if that’s the case – it shows you’ve done something right. But I think it’s mostly just talk, and for me it’s all about doing a good job here.

“We actually have a chance to get promoted this year. We feel that there is a chance, but then it’s clear that it will be difficult.”

Hellberg’s comments will offer encouragement to Middlesbrough supporters who will be eager to see him continue the impressive work he has started at the Riverside Stadium.

With promotion firmly within reach, his focus appears to be on helping Boro achieve their ambitions rather than becoming distracted by speculation surrounding his future.