Conor Hourihane’s reign as Barnsley head coach is coming to an end and fans have been left to ponder potential successors.
Early links to Darren Moore and Charlie Daniels have been downplayed, meaning supporters are still speculating as the 2025/26 campaign approaches its end.
Hourihane only took charge on a permanent basis in April last year, becoming the head coach of a club he represented with such distinction as a player. He has been unable to turn the Reds into League One promotion contenders and a mutual agreement has been struck that will see him move on at the end of the campaign.
After the agreement was reached, Hourihane said: “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.”
Here are 17 out-of-work managers Barnsley could turn to in their hunt for a new head coach.

13. Alan Sheehan
A former left-back for Leeds United and Bradford City, Sheehan lost his job at Swansea City earlier in the season. | Nick Potts/PA Wire

14. Simon Rusk
Rusk managed England Under-19s before taking charge of Southampton Under-21s. He had two spells in temporary charge of the Saints first team before leaving last year. | Dan Istitene/Getty Images

15. Noel Hunt
The former Leeds United forward was sacked from his role as head coach of Reading last year. | Mark Thompson/Getty Images

16. Garry Monk
The 47-year-old, who represented Barnsley in his playing days, was last employed by Cambridge United. He also counts the likes of Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday among his former clubs. | George Wood/Getty Images


