By Score More Sports Staff with Agencies
Struggling Championship side Stoke City announced on Wednesday the appointment of Mark Robins as their new manager on a three-and-a-half-year deal. Robins becomes the club’s third permanent manager this season as they seek stability amid a challenging campaign.
Robins, who spent seven years with Coventry City before being dismissed in November, replaces Narcis Pelach, whose tenure lasted just 19 matches. Pelach had himself succeeded Steven Schumacher, who was sacked in September following a poor start to the season.
A Proven Record
Stoke’s Sporting Director, Jon Walters, expressed optimism about Robins’ potential to reshape the club’s fortunes. “At Coventry, Mark built something successful with a real identity and longevity. He left the club in a significantly better place than he found it. That’s exactly what we want to achieve,” Walters said in a statement.
Robins has a track record of transforming teams. During his time at Coventry, he led them to promotion to the Championship in 2020 and narrowly missed a Premier League berth in 2023, falling to Luton Town in a dramatic playoff final decided by penalties.
Stoke’s Current Struggles
Stoke City currently sits 18th in the Championship table with 25 points from 24 matches, reflecting a season plagued by inconsistency. However, interim manager Ryan Shawcross provided a glimmer of hope last weekend, guiding the team to a 1-0 victory over Sunderland, ending a ten-match winless streak.
Robins faces an uphill battle to stabilize the Potters, but his experience and reputation for long-term rebuilding could prove invaluable. His first test will come on Saturday when Stoke hosts bottom-placed Plymouth Argyle, who recently parted ways with manager Wayne Rooney.
Looking Ahead
Robins’ appointment is seen as a strategic move aimed at bringing continuity to a club that has cycled through managers in quick succession. Stoke fans, eager for a resurgence, will be hoping that Robins can replicate the success he achieved at Coventry and steer the team toward safer waters.
As the Championship season reaches its midpoint, Stoke’s new manager has an opportunity to rebuild confidence, strengthen the squad, and lay the groundwork for a brighter future.