Key Takeaways
- Scott Parker and Burnley Football Club have ended their working relationship by mutual agreement following demotion from the Premier League.
- Assistant manager Mike Jackson will manage the team for the last four matches of the current campaign.
- The Clarets have started hunting for a new permanent manager, with Wales boss Craig Bellamy emerging as a possible candidate.
Scott Parker has stepped down as head coach of Burnley with immediate effect. The 45-year-old leaves Turf Moor after the club dropped back into the Championship.
The former England midfielder held talks with club chairman Alan Pace following confirmation of relegation on 22 April. Burnley suffered defeat against Manchester City that day, sealing their fate in the top division. Both parties agreed that a change was necessary.
Parker joined the Lancashire club nearly two years ago. He replaced Vincent Kompany and guided Burnley to the Championship title and promotion. His team earned 100 points during the 2024-25 campaign. They also set a club record with 33 matches without defeat and kept 30 clean sheets.
However, life in the Premier League proved difficult. The Clarets won only four of their 34 league fixtures this term. Their defence leaked 68 goals, the worst record in the division.
Mike Jackson, Parker’s deputy, will take charge for the remaining fixtures. His first match comes against Leeds United on Friday. Jackson previously served as caretaker boss in April 2022 after Sean Dyche’s dismissal.
The club has already begun searching for a full-time replacement ahead of the 2026-27 season. Craig Bellamy currently manages the Wales national team. He previously worked as a coach at Burnley under Kompany. The club hopes to convince him to return to Turf Moor.
Parker issued a statement thanking the board, staff, and supporters. He expressed pride in winning promotion last season. The former Fulham and Bournemouth manager wished the club success in the future.
Burnley released an official statement confirming the mutual decision. The club praised Parker’s professionalism and dedication during his tenure.
The team will compete in the second tier next season. This marks the sixth consecutive campaign where they have switched between the Premier League and the Championship.