Sligo Rovers Secure Manager John Russell with Multi-Year Deal

Sligo Rovers have confirmed that their manager, John Russell, has signed a new multi-year contract, solidifying his position at the club. The 40-year-old coach garnered a nomination for the 2025 PFAI Manager of the Year after leading the team to a seventh-place finish in the Premier Division. Russell’s tenure has been marked by his deep connection to the club, having previously played for Sligo during three separate spells and amassing over 100 appearances.

Taking over from Liam Buckley as manager in May 2022, initially on an interim basis, Russell has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Before stepping into the role of head coach, he served as Buckley’s assistant and briefly managed Westport United in the Mayo League. Despite facing challenges at the start of the 2025 season, including the departure of key players, Russell’s leadership helped the team recover. The club managed to secure 29 points from 19 matches in the second half of the season, ultimately finishing two points clear of relegation.

Club Challenges and Community Commitment

After signing the new deal, Russell addressed the challenges Sligo Rovers faces in a competitive landscape. He noted, “Significant investment at certain clubs as well as the introduction of multi-club ownership models have put serious pressure on our club model and our ability to compete for silverware and those coveted European places.” Russell emphasized the need for innovation and development within the team, stating, “We must continue to innovate, develop and improve the players, stick to our principles and keep believing in what we’re doing.”

Russell underscored the importance of Sligo Rovers not just as a football club, but as a vital part of the community. “Our club is special. Sligo Rovers is more than just a football club. It’s the heartbeat of the community. In life, we all want to be part of something bigger.”

Chairperson Tommy Higgins expressed confidence in Russell’s leadership, stating, “In having John in charge, we have who we believe is the best young manager in the league leading our first team and shaping how the club will evolve over the next few years.” Higgins acknowledged the difficulties faced by the club both on and off the pitch in the previous year, but noted that the team emerged stronger from those challenges.

As Sligo Rovers prepares for the upcoming season, the club aims to build on last year’s performance. With Russell at the helm, fans can expect a competitive squad and a renewed focus on achieving success in both domestic and European competitions.