Ex-Oxford United boss Liam Manning leaves Huddersfield Town

The Terriers confirmed that the former U’s boss will not return to the club after the regular League One season recently came to an end.

Huddersfield said that it was a mutual decision between Manning, the club, and his family.

The 40-year-old began a period of compassionate leave on March 25 due to ongoing personal matters following the tragic passing of his son Theo in October 2024.

Manning told the Terriers upon the decision the decision: “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.

Former Oxford United head coach Liam Manning departs Huddersfield Town (Image: Joe Giddens/PA Wire)

“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.”

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Manning was in charge of the U’s in 2023 for eight months before departing in November for Championship side Bristol City.

The Englishman left with Oxford second in League One, Des Buckingham taking over and leading the club to play-off glory later that season.

Manning has since taken the Robins to a play-off finish last season, the club’s first play-off campaign in 17 years, before leaving for hometown club Norwich City where he lasted only five months following a poor start to the season.

Fans and pundits have reacted to the news with heartfelt messages for the ex-Yellows boss.

EFL pundit Gabriel Sutton posted on X: “Best wishes, Liam.”

One Huddersfield fan commented: “All the best Liam, hopefully you get the help you need. Top man.”

Former Oxford United head coach Liam Manning (Image: Mike Allen)

Another Terriers supporter said: “Don’t care that we didn’t achieve what we wanted to under him this season, some things are bigger than football. I wish Liam the very best for him and his family, and everyone at Town does too.”

Manning’s departure means that Huddersfield must now search for a new man to take charge of the club ahead of the 2026/27 season.

News outlet SportsBoom have reported that the Terriers are supposedly eyeing a shock move for former boss David Wagner.

Wagner led the club to promotion to the Premier League in 2017 with a Championship play-off final victory over Reading.

He has since managed Norwich City and German giants Schalke but has been out of work since his sacking from the Canaries in 2024.