Former Port Vale manager Darrell Clarke has been appointed Bristol Rovers manager for the 2025-26 season.
Rovers sacked head coach Inigo Calderon on Sunday and appointed the former Vale manager on Tuesday. Clarke, 47, had four years in charge of Rovers between 2014-2018, a stint in which he brought them back into the Football League at the first attempt and then instantly won promotion to League One.
Clarke has previously had spells with Barnsley and Cheltenham Town. He also took Port Vale to promotion to League One during his first full season in charge of the club in 2021-2022. The manager suffered a traumatic personal tragedy when his daughter passed away in 2022. Clarke was dismissed by the Valiants in April 2023 despite a 41% win ratio from his 124 games in charge.
He released a statement two weeks later which stated: “Port Vale and its incredible fanbase will always hold a place in my and my family’s hearts. The journey we travelled together, on and off the pitch, can never be erased. I will never be able to repay you as people for how you were there for us in our darkest hour, and for that we will be eternally grateful”
the best of luck to him
The perfect fit for Bristol Rovers. Expect them to bounce back next season, but will Clarke look to the Vale’s squad for his recruitment ? Wouldn’t be surprised if Nathan Smith is top of his free transfer shopping list.
Yes I agree. I wish him all the very best. Along with the owners he brought our club back out of the doldrums. Mind you I hope he doesn’t pouch Smudger. He’s a must for us next season.
Clarke is turning into a bit of a journeyman in the lower leagues not staying anywhere for long, have boots will travel. It always makes me wonder if the person is difficult to get on with, or just honest and outspoken which doesn’t suit some people.