Breaking news: Steve Bruce has officially been sacked as Blackpool head coach

Steve Bruce dismissed as Blackpool head coach after defeat to AFC Wimbledon

Steve Bruce has been relieved of his duties as Blackpool head coach following their 2-0 home defeat to AFC Wimbledon.

The loss marked the Seasiders’ seventh in League One this season, leaving them sitting 23rd in the table. Bruce, the former Manchester United defender, was appointed in September 2024 as Neil Critchley’s successor but has now been dismissed just over a year into his tenure.

A club statement released on Saturday evening read:

“Blackpool Football Club can confirm the departure of Head Coach Steve Bruce, Assistant Head Coach Steve Agnew, and First-Team Coach Stephen Clemence. The Club would like to thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best for the future.”

The statement also confirmed that Stephen Dobbie and Steve Banks will oversee first-team duties on an interim basis while the search for a permanent replacement is underway.

Blackpool have endured a dismal start to the campaign, managing just three wins in all competitions — two in the league and one in the Vertu Trophy. Out of 13 matches this season, eight have ended in defeat.

During his spell at Bloomfield Road, Bruce recorded 22 wins from 59 games.

The 63-year-old’s managerial journey began as a player-manager with Sheffield United, before taking charge of Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic, Crystal Palace, and Birmingham City, among others.