Ryan Coogler might just return to Marvel for a Black Panther sequel

The way Kevin Feige is talking suggests that the Marvel Cinematic Universe is happy to wait on Ryan Coogler to handle Black Panther 2.

When you have a director who puts together a highly-grossing film that’s also critically adored, it usually behooves you to bring that director back.

After all, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has done it for directors like Joss Whedon (only to have Avengers: Age of Ultron fall flat in terms of critical love from fans, which is why he hasn’t been back since), the Russo Brothers (who have since been entrusted with both Avengers: Infinity War and the fourth Avengers film after Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War) and now, hopefully, Ryan Coogler.

Per Collider, which helpfully points out just how much money Black Panther has grossed, and ultimately Kevin Feige, Marvel and Coogler are working out a deal for a Black Panther sequel.

While it’s not Avengers 5 (oh, come on, you all know it’s coming), it’s clear from Black Panther that, as we’ve said previously and as Collider agrees, he deserves a shot at making the sequel and continuing to make his own mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Aside from that, considering how likely it is that Infinity War and Avengers 4 will shake things up, having at least some known quantities to move the MCU forward has to help put Feige’s mind at ease, especially considering T’Challa’s huge surge in popularity.

Next: The MCU movies ranked by hilarity

Things will also be moving forward at a natural, smooth pace. Feige specifically said that the film “will be when Ryan wants to [do it].” That confidence — including an additional quote to Collider about how Marvel was apparently unconcerned about Black Panther  — has us feeling happy about the future of T’Challa in the MCU.

Now, about that Avengers 5 … sure, Collider asks for the obvious Wakanda spinoffs, but let’s face it: Coogler could handle a team-up pic.