City confirm McCann exit
GONE: Grant McCann has left Hull City. Picture credit: Hull City
Hull City have “parted company” with head coach Grant McCann, the club has said, in its first major announcement since the takeover of Acun Ilıcalı last week.
McCann, 41, leaves on a high, with back-to-back victories in the Sky Bet Championship against high-flying sides in Blackburn and Bournemouth.
Speculation about a new manager coming in has been widespread in recent days.
Ilıcalı, the chairman and owner, said in a statement: “Grant has done an excellent job for this football club in difficult circumstances, most specifically during the takeover process, and for that I offer my sincere thanks.
“These matters are never easy and are more often than not protracted. During the process, Grant has always remained professional and fully focused on the team, and will forever be a friend of the Tigers.
“I’m sure Grant will be successful in whatever his next challenge is.
“However, now is the time for change and for me to start to build, in what I believe will be an incredibly exciting time for the club.
‘LEAVING WITH OUR THANKS’: Assistant manager Cliff Byrne, left, and Grant McCann. Picture credit: Hull City
“I have a philosophy and a belief that our project should start as we mean to carry on, and that involves having my team in place.
“I understand the timing may look odd, after two good wins, but I wouldn’t be fair or honest if I merely waited for a defeat to change manager. That benefits nobody. I will continue to be transparent with you, our fans.
"“Our new head coach will be announced very shortly.”
Assistant head coach Cliff Byrne has also left the club with immediate effect.
The club said it “would like to thank Grant and Cliff for their commitment and dedication throughout their time at the club and wish them both well for the future”.
McCann joined City in June 2019 and won 53 of his 136 matches in charge his two-and-a-half-year spell as manager.
He guided the Tigers to promotion as League One champions last season – the club’s first league title in 55 years – and leaves the club in 19th place in the Championship.