Former Sheffield United man to leave managerial post at end of season
There is to be a change at South Yorkshire neighbours Barnsley for next season
Former Sheffield United midfielder Conor Hourihane is to step down from his job as manager at Barnsley at the end of this season, the club have announced.
The Reds’ campaign has petered out and they stand to finish around mid-table amid frustration amongst supporters around the club’s future under the current ownership due to a perceived lack in investment.
Hourihane himself said a few weeks ago that next season would likely bring about a similar league position due to the planned investment in recruitment.
The former Republic of Ireland international, who made 30 appearances on loan at United from Aston Villa in 2021/22, had been in his first managerial role when he took charge at Barnsley in March last year having stepped up from the coaching staff.
With five games of the season remaining, the club announced on Saturday morning that Hourihane is to leave once the campaign is over, with the manager saying in a statement on the club website: I am incredibly grateful to the Club for giving me the opportunity to begin my management journey, particularly at a Club that means so much to me. I want to say a massive thank you to the Barnsley supporters.
“I will always hold Barnsley in my heart and wish the Club nothing but the very best for the future. Following discussions between the Club and myself, we both felt that a change in the summer would be best to ensure a smooth transition. The main focus now is on the final five games and finishing the season as strongly as possible to provide the best platform going forward.”
Club CEO added: “We would like to thank Conor for his hard work and commitment during his time in charge. “After honest conversations between the Board and Conor, it was felt that the best course of action for both parties would be to pursue a fresh start ahead of preparations for the 2026/27 season.
“We are now looking to ensure a smooth transition between Conor and our new Head Coach through to the end of the current campaign.”