Bristol Rovers is delighted to confirm the return of Darrell Clarke to the Club as the new men's first team Head Coach.
Clarke, who previously led Rovers to back-to-back promotions during a four-year stint as manager between 2014-2018, returns to the Memorial Stadium for a second spell and has signed a three-year deal with the Gas.
The 47-year-old takes charge of the men's first team ahead of the 2025/26 season in Sky Bet League Two, a division he achieved promotion from in the 2015/16 campaign with Rovers.
Clarke’s coaching career has also seen him achieve promotion to Sky Bet League One with Port Vale, as well as spells managing Walsall, Cheltenham Town and, most recently, Barnsley.
“It is difficult to put into words just how special it feels to come back to Bristol Rovers,” Clarke said. “I am beyond proud to return and once again be here at this exceptional Club.
“Even though the season just gone was undoubtedly a difficult one, the potential of this Club remains incredibly high and, when the chance to return came up, I didn’t have any hesitation.
“I am excited to get down to work during the off-season, prepare for the new campaign and step out at The Mem once again in front of the brilliant, passionate Gasheads. We will need each and every one of them with us in the season to come and I want to give them a team they can get behind and performances they can be proud of.”
Director of Football Ricky Martin said: “I am delighted to welcome Darrell back to Bristol Rovers.
“Following the review of our footballing operation we began our recruitment proceedings, and it quickly became clear to me that Darrell was the right person to take our first team forward. He has been our number one target throughout this process.
“Darrell is an experienced and methodical coach, and I have been impressed by the expertise and knowledge he has shown. Even more apparent is his enthusiasm and energy, as is his incredible passion for Bristol Rovers Football Club.
“I am looking forward to working closely with Darrell over the summer and throughout pre-season as we revitalise and rejuvenate our playing squad, and ensure the Club has the best possible standing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.”
Everyone at Bristol Rovers warmly welcomes Darrell back to the Club and wishes him all the best in his time at the Memorial Stadium.
