Huddersfield Town head coach Liam Manning leaves League One club

The former Norwich City and Bristol City chief had been on compassionate leave since March 25 for 'ongoing personal matters' relating to the tragic loss of his newborn son Theo in October 2024.

Town owner Kevin Nagle commented: "I want to pay huge tribute to Liam today. Stepping away from this role is the correct decision for him and his family, and that comes before absolutely everything else.

"His openness and honesty about this situation have been second-to-none.

"His time at Huddersfield Town had been relatively short but he has shown a deep care and respect for the club in how he has dealt with us. He will always be a Terrier and is always welcome back at Accu Stadium.”

On his departure, Manning said: "Stepping down from Huddersfield Town has been a difficult decision, but one I feel is best for the club, my family and myself at this time.

"It has been a privilege to manage this team and be a part of this community. I am grateful to the fans for their support and compassion in recent months.

"The understanding and care from the club has gone above and beyond, and I would like to thank Kevin Nagle, Chris Markham, the wider first team staff and players for their professionalism, commitment and dedication in my absence.

"Although my time was shorter than I had hoped, I am grateful for the opportunity Kevin Nagle entrusted in me and wish nothing but success for Huddersfield Town moving forwards.”

Martin Drury and Jon Stead took interim charge for the final nine games of the regular season.

Manning, 40, joined Town in January on a long-term contract, but led the club for just 12 league games, winning five, drawing three and losing four.

Previously, Manning had taken a short leave of absence from his role as Bristol City boss after the death of Theo.

Town are now embarking on their search for a ninth full time head coaching/managerial appointment in just under four years.

Sporting director Chris Markham added: "I’m sad that I won’t get the chance to work with Liam for longer but, as Mr. Nagle has rightly stated, family must always come first. This is the right decision for the Manning family, and that is all important.

"We knew Liam was an excellent head coach before he arrived, but seeing how he works up close only cemented that opinion. I look forward to seeing him back in a dugout in the future, but only when it is right for him and his family.”