SOUTHAMPTON, UK – Southampton Football Club has officially parted ways with manager Will Still after an abysmal start to the Championship season.
The club’s internal decision was finalized following Saturday’s disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Preston North End, which proved to be the final straw for the hierarchy.
Still’s departure brings a swift and shocking end to his tenure, which lasted just over five months.
Catastrophic Start to Championship Return
The 33-year-old manager, who arrived at St Mary’s in May with a reputation for his successful spell in Ligue 1, failed dramatically to steer the relegated club back toward promotion contention.
Under his command, the Saints managed only four wins from 16 matches across all competitions, including a meager two victories in the Championship.
This catastrophic form leaves the club languishing in 21st place in the table, just three points above the relegation zone—a position unthinkable for a club tipped for an immediate return to the Premier League.
Club Statement Cites Lack of Progress
Southampton’s Group Technical Director, Johannes Spors, confirmed the decision in a statement, acknowledging Still’s effort but ultimately citing the disappointing results: “Will is a great person who gave everything to try and improve performances and results.
Ultimately that process has taken longer than any of us would have liked. By making a change now we believe it gives us the best chance of turning things around this season and climbing back up the league table.”
The sack also includes the departure of assistant coaches Rubén Martínez, Clément Lemaitre, and Carl Martin.
Interim Boss and Manager Search Begins
The immediate focus at St Mary’s is stability, with Men’s Under-21s Head Coach Tonda Eckert being appointed to take charge of the first team on an interim basis.
Meanwhile, the club’s board is already compiling a shortlist for a permanent replacement.
Early speculation and bookmaker odds point to several intriguing candidates, including a stunning potential return for former manager Russell Martin, as well as names like Michael Carrick and former Saints boss Ralph Hasenhüttl.
The pressure is on the new appointment to quickly turn around the club’s fortunes and restore the promotion push.
