Former England boss Roy Hodgson made English football history after his sensational return to management at the age of 78, following his appointment as interim head coach of Bristol City today (Friday, March 27).
The Robins, as Bristol City are affectionately known were previously managed by Hodgson in 1982. The club dismissed Gerhard Struber and assistant Bernd Eibler after a run of just one win in their last nine matches, and confirmed Hodgson will take charge of the club’s final seven matches of the season.
Hodgson will become the oldest manager to take charge of an English Football League (EFL) game when he takes to the dugout for the Robins’ trip to Charlton Athletic next Friday.
The 44-year hiatus between the veteran manager’s spells in charge of City is also the longest gap on record and breaks the previous record held by Graham Turner, who returned to Shrewsbury Town 26 years after his first stint.
In a statement issued on the club’s website, Hodgson said “I have had great conversations with the Board, and I am really excited by the opportunity to help until the end of the season.
“We will get straight to work and look for a positive performance on Good Friday.”
The club confirmed they’re also on the hunt for a new sporting director, who will be tasked with appointing a permanent boss for the 2026/27 season.
Chief Executive Officer Charlie Boss said: “I would like to thank Gerhard and Bernd for their hard work over the past nine months, and we wish them all the best.
“Roy’s appointment is about more than the results of the next seven games. Over the remainder of the season, he will help us set the standards and values at the club that we will need to be successful going forwards.
“Roy is a vastly experienced coach who has achieved and won at the highest level. He will support me, our players and our football staff as we build towards achieving our potential.
“We are in the process of appointing a Sporting Director who will have a direct input into the recruitment of a new permanent Head Coach.”
Hodgson last took charge of Crystal Palace at the tail end of the 2023/24 season, stepping down after being taken ill during a training session.
His return to the Robins marks the 25th spell of his managerial career. He most notably managed European giants Liverpool and Inter Milan, as well as leading England at a World Cup and two European Championships from 2012-2016.
