When a manager returns to their old club, it often stirs up emotions, both for the supporters and the club’s players. The dynamic of a returning manager is full of questions: Can they replicate the success they once enjoyed, or does the pressure of expectations lead to a downturn? The idea of a manager returning to their old club is both nostalgic and risky, as evidenced by numerous high-profile instances in football history. One such notable return is David Moyes, who is returning to Everton 11 years after leaving the club for Manchester United.
Moyes’ time at Everton was transformative. He took a club that was struggling near the bottom of the Premier League and turned them into consistent European contenders. Yet, his return to Everton comes at a difficult time for the club, as they are currently hovering just above the relegation zone. Moyes will not want to tarnish the legacy he created in his first spell, but the pressure to do so is immense.
In this article, we will delve into the successes and failures of other managers returning to their old clubs and examine whether this trend usually results in triumph or disappointment. From Jose Mourinho’s celebrated return to Chelsea to the mixed fortunes of Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace, the landscape of managerial comebacks is a varied one.
Jose Mourinho: Chelsea Return – Success and Strain
One of the most iconic manager returns to old clubs occurred when Jose Mourinho returned to Chelsea in 2013, six years after leaving the club. His first stint at Stamford Bridge, starting in 2004, was marked by remarkable success. Mourinho led Chelsea to their first league title in 50 years and successfully defended the title, securing multiple domestic trophies along the way.
However, his departure from Chelsea in 2007 was not without controversy. The “Special One” fell out with Roman Abramovich, the club’s owner, leading to his exit. Fast forward to 2013, Mourinho returned to Chelsea after successful stints at Inter Milan and Real Madrid. The reception from Chelsea fans was overwhelmingly positive, and his second spell saw him win the Premier League and the League Cup.
Yet, despite the successes, Mourinho’s return ended in disappointment. By December 2015, after Chelsea’s dismal start to the season, Mourinho was sacked. The issue of behind-the-scenes tension reared its ugly head once again, proving that even the most celebrated managerial returns come with risks.
Verdict: Mourinho’s second spell at Chelsea can be considered a success in terms of trophies, but it ultimately ended in acrimony.
Kevin Keegan’s Return to Newcastle – A Tale of Nostalgia and Frustration
Kevin Keegan’s return to Newcastle United in 2008 is another high-profile example of a manager returning to their old club. Keegan is a club legend in Newcastle, having enjoyed success as both a player and manager. During his first spell, Keegan guided the team to the Premier League and brought an exciting brand of football to St. James’ Park. However, Keegan’s second spell was far from smooth.
Keegan’s return was filled with optimism, and the club’s fans welcomed him with open arms. But the relationship between Keegan and the club’s then-owner, Mike Ashley, soured quickly. The manager was unhappy with the running of the club, particularly the relationship with the director of football. The culmination of frustration led to Keegan leaving after just nine months in charge.
Verdict: Despite the strong emotional connection, Keegan’s second stint at Newcastle can be categorized as a failure due to the internal issues at the club and his short tenure.
David Moyes’ Return to West Ham United – A Surprising Success
David Moyes’ return to West Ham United is one of the more positive examples of managers returning to their old clubs. Moyes initially arrived at West Ham in 2017 on a short-term contract, saving them from relegation. His departure after a single season left fans disappointed. However, when West Ham replaced Manuel Pellegrini with Moyes in 2019, it was a return that proved successful.
Under Moyes, West Ham enjoyed an impressive run, finishing in the top six and securing European football. In 2023, Moyes led West Ham to their first major trophy in over 40 years, winning the Europa Conference League. This success marked a high point in his managerial career, especially considering his earlier struggles at Manchester United.
Despite some concerns over the team’s style of play, Moyes’ second stint at West Ham was largely seen as a success, with significant achievements including European qualification and silverware.
Verdict: A resounding success, Moyes’ return to West Ham is a rare example of a manager revitalizing his career at a familiar club.
Roy Hodgson’s Return to Crystal Palace – A Mixed Bag
Roy Hodgson’s return to Crystal Palace in 2023 was met with both optimism and concern. Hodgson had previously managed the club from 2017 to 2021, stabilizing them in the Premier League before stepping down. His return in 2023 came after the departure of Patrick Vieira, and while he guided the club to safety, it wasn’t without problems.
Palace’s form during Hodgson’s second stint was underwhelming, and despite his attempts to steady the ship, the club finished just above the relegation zone. While Hodgson’s first stint at the club was seen as a success, his return didn’t produce the same results.
Verdict: Hodgson’s second spell was a disappointment, as the team’s performance failed to improve despite his experience.
The Tale of Tony Pulis: Stoke City’s Managerial Revolve
Tony Pulis’ return to Stoke City in 2006 after a brief departure is a more mixed story in terms of success. Pulis’ first spell ended when he was sacked, but he returned a year later and led Stoke to promotion to the Premier League. Under Pulis, Stoke enjoyed several years of stability, even achieving their first FA Cup final appearance in 2011.
The second spell was far more successful than the first. Pulis guided Stoke to their highest-ever finish in the Premier League and established them as a solid mid-table team.
Verdict: A success, as Pulis helped Stoke City to thrive in the Premier League after his return.
Harry Redknapp: A Return to Portsmouth that Paid Off
Harry Redknapp’s return to Portsmouth was a classic example of a manager returning to their old club to great effect. Redknapp initially took Portsmouth to the Premier League and won the FA Cup in 2008, a remarkable achievement for a club with a relatively modest budget. His departure in 2004 to Southampton was a surprise, but he returned to Fratton Park in 2005 and guided Portsmouth to even greater success.
Under Redknapp, Portsmouth won the FA Cup, and he was credited with transforming the club. This return cemented his legacy as one of Portsmouth’s greatest-ever managers.
Verdict: A resounding success, as Redknapp’s second spell at Portsmouth led to silverware and further accomplishments.
Conclusion: Does it Work When a Manager Returns to Their Old Club?
In conclusion, the question of whether it works when a manager returns to their old club depends on a variety of factors. Success is not guaranteed, and often the emotional attachment to the club and its supporters can lead to heightened expectations. While some returns, such as David Moyes’ at West Ham or Tony Pulis’ at Stoke, prove successful, others such as Kevin Keegan at Newcastle or Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace demonstrate that not every comeback has a fairytale ending.
Ultimately, a manager’s ability to handle the pressure, adapt to new challenges, and manage the evolving landscape of the club will determine the success of their return. For some, coming back to their old club is a triumphant return that cements their legacy. For others, it proves to be a difficult challenge that ends in disappointment. Time will tell whether David Moyes’ return to Everton will be another success or if it will prove to be one of those difficult managerial returns that fails to live up to expectations.
