Millwall Manager Gary Rowett Departs Club After Four Years in Charge

Millwall manager Gary Rowett has left the Championship club by mutual consent after four years in charge. The 49-year-old guided the club to top-half finishes in each of those years but was unable to secure them a place in the play-offs. Rowett took over in October 2019 following a short stint at Stoke.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed being manager of Millwall and depart with a feeling that the club has progressed during my tenure,” Rowett said.

A successor has not yet been appointed, and assistant manager Adam Barrett will take charge of the team in the interim period. Currently, Millwall sits 15th in the Championship with four wins from their opening 11 league matches, three points off the play-off places.

Rowett expressed his gratitude towards the fans for their support during his time at the club and acknowledged the unique atmosphere they create. Reflecting on his departure, he stated, “As is sometimes the case in football, the time just feels right to part ways.”

Chairman James Berylson also expressed his appreciation for Rowett’s efforts, stating, “We greatly appreciate Gary’s efforts throughout his time in charge and he departs with the best wishes of everybody connected with the club.”

Rowett took charge of Millwall after Neil Harris resigned and following his own unsuccessful spell at Stoke, where he was in charge for just eight months. In 2022, the former Derby player signed a new contract with Millwall after leading the London side to contend for a Championship play-off place until the final day of the season.

Despite a 1-0 loss to promoted Bournemouth ultimately denying them a play-off spot, Rowett’s ability to keep Millwall in contention earned him praise and a contract extension. However, the club’s fortunes have not seen significant improvement since then, leading to the decision for Rowett to leave the club.

While a successor is yet to be appointed on a permanent basis, the club will be under the management of Adam Barrett for the time being.

As Millwall takes stock of the situation and moves forward, the departure of Gary Rowett marks the end of an era for the club and signals the need for new leadership to guide them on their continued journey in the Championship.