Millwall FC head coach Neil Harris has announced that he will leave the club following their upcoming fixture against Middlesbrough on Saturday. The decision comes as the Lions sit 11th in the Championship, enduring a four-game winless streak.
Harris, 47, returned to the club for his second managerial stint in February under a contract extending until June 2025. His connection with Millwall runs deep as the club’s all-time leading goalscorer and former manager from 2015 to 2019. Reflecting on his departure, Harris emphasized the emotional weight of his decision.
“Everyone knows this club is more than a job to me, it’s my club, and always will be,” he stated. “I always said when I returned that I would leave when the time felt right, and now is that time.”
Under Harris’ leadership, Millwall climbed from 21st place last season to a respectable 13th, solidifying their Championship status. This season, despite struggles early on, the Lions recorded impressive wins against top-tier teams like Burnley and Leeds United. However, a recent defeat to Coventry City—where the team failed to register a shot on target—marked a low point.
Transition Period and Future Plans
Harris will bid farewell to The Den during Wednesday’s match against Sheffield United before leading the team one final time at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday.
The club has already initiated the recruitment process for his replacement, with director of football Steve Gallen confirming the priority to align the next head coach with Millwall’s long-term strategy.
“The direction we as a club want to head in is clear, and the next head coach will play a pivotal role in helping us execute our strategy,” Gallen explained.
Club chairman James Berylson expressed gratitude for Harris’ service and acknowledged the need to find a successor capable of building on his legacy. Early speculation points to Mark Robins, current Coventry City manager, as a potential candidate. Robins’ tactical expertise and success with limited budgets make him a strong contender for the role.
BBC Radio 5 Live’s Aaron Paul highlighted the complexity of the club’s position:
“Millwall’s leadership now faces a tough challenge. The right appointment is crucial to avoid the missteps seen in previous transitions. Stability, not experimentation, is key.”
As Harris prepares to step down, Millwall fans will hope the next chapter honors the foundation he laid while steering the club through turbulent times.
