Scott Parker has departed from his position as Burnley head coach with immediate effect, following the club's relegation from the Premier League. The decision was reached by mutual consent after discussions between Parker and Burnley's chair, Alan Pace, since the team's relegation was confirmed after a defeat against Manchester City on 22 April. The 45-year-old leaves with respectful tributes from both sides, and his assistant, Mike Jackson, will take interim charge for the remaining four matches of the season.
Parker's Tenure at Burnley
Parker took over at Turf Moor almost two years ago after Vincent Kompany's departure and guided Burnley back to the Premier League at the first attempt, amassing 100 points. During that season, Burnley set a club record with a 33-game unbeaten run and a Championship record of 30 clean sheets. However, they were unable to replicate that form in the top flight, conceding more goals than any other Premier League team this season (68) and winning only four of 34 matches.
Statement from Scott Parker
Reflecting on his time at the club, Parker said: "It has been an immense privilege to lead this great club over the past two years. I have enjoyed every moment of our journey together, but feel that now is the right time for both parties to move in a different direction. I reflect back with great pride on what we achieved during my time at the club, especially our unforgettable promotion season in 2024-25, and it was a true honour to lead this team into the Premier League." He thanked the ownership group, staff, and players for their support, and expressed gratitude to the Burnley fans.
Interim Management and Successor Search
Mike Jackson, a long-serving coach at Burnley, will take charge for the final four games, starting with a match at Leeds on Friday. Jackson previously took over after Sean Dyche's sacking in April 2022 but was unable to prevent relegation despite a strong start. The search for a permanent successor is underway, with Wales manager Craig Bellamy, a former Burnley coach under Vincent Kompany, emerging as a candidate. It remains to be seen whether Bellamy can be persuaded to leave his current role.
Club Statement
Burnley released a statement saying: "Following confirmation of the club's relegation from the Premier League last week, Parker and the board held discussions and mutually agreed that his time at Turf Moor would conclude. The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Scott for his professionalism, dedication and contribution. He leaves with the respect and gratitude of everyone connected with Burnley Football Club. The process of appointing a new permanent head coach ahead of the 2026-27 season has begun."
Burnley will have yo-yoed between the top two tiers of English football for six consecutive seasons when the 2026-27 campaign begins. The club now faces the challenge of rebuilding and aiming for an immediate return to the Premier League.
