Conor Hourihane is to leave Barnsley at the end of the season by mutual agreement.
This marks a significant shift for both parties. Hourihane was appointed as head coach on an interim basis in March 2025. He was given a two-year contract exactly 12 months ago.
As of midday, Barnsley sits 12th in League One. They are currently 12 points outside the play-off places, which has been disappointing for fans.
Hourihane has had a mixed tenure. Under his leadership, Barnsley has won only 14 of their 42 league games in the current season.
His final game in charge will be against Stockport County on May 2. This decision follows honest conversations between Hourihane and the board.
Jon Flatman, a club representative, stated, “After honest conversations between the board and Conor, it was felt that the best course of action for both parties would be to pursue a fresh start ahead of preparations for the 2026-27 season.”
Hourihane expressed mutual respect between himself and the club. He noted, “We felt that at the end of the season, it was probably the right time just to part ways.”
This is not just a coaching change; it’s part of a larger narrative. Barnsley announced a net loss of more than £6.5 million for the year ending June 2025.
Hourihane previously captained Barnsley to an EFL Trophy and League One promotion double in 2016. He also scored 31 goals in 135 appearances during his first spell with the club.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential successors or future plans for Barnsley FC. The club has faced challenges since reaching the play-offs in 2023 and 2024.
