News Focus
- Michael Skubala joins Bristol City on a three-year contract after winning promotion with Lincoln City
- The 43-year-old guided the Imps to the League One title, ending a 65-year wait for second-tier football
- Bristol City will pay over £1 million in compensation to secure the manager’s services
- The Championship club initially approached Bournemouth assistant Tommy Elphick before turning to Skubala
- Roy Hodgson served as interim manager following Gerhard Struber’s dismissal in March
Bristol City have confirmed Michael Skubala as their new manager. The 43-year-old moves from Lincoln City after leading them to the League One championship.
Skubala has agreed to a three-year deal at Ashton Gate. He replaces Roy Hodgson, who served as a temporary boss after the club sacked Gerhard Struber earlier this year.
The new manager expressed his excitement about the role. He stated that he had productive discussions with the board regarding the club’s future plans. He also mentioned his eagerness to meet the players and supporters ahead of the new season.
Lincoln City achieved remarkable success under Skubala’s guidance. The team won the League One title this season, securing a place in the Championship for the first time in 65 years. This achievement earned Skubala the League Managers’ Association award for the division’s best manager.
The appointment required significant financial investment. Bristol City will pay Lincoln more than £1 million in compensation. This fee was necessary because Skubala had recently signed a new contract with his former club.
Interestingly, Bristol City initially pursued a different candidate. They held talks with Tommy Elphick, who works as an assistant at Bournemouth. However, the former defender decided against taking the position. He chose to consider other opportunities instead.
Lincoln’s chief executive praised Skubala’s contribution. Liam Scully thanked the manager for his integrity and professionalism. He wished him success in his new challenge at the higher level.