Matt Taylor returns as permanent Exeter City manager in 2026

Newly-relegated Exeter City appoints Matt Taylor as their permanent manager for the second time following his interim stint this season.

Taylor's permanent appointment confirmed Newly-relegated Exeter City has officially named Matt Taylor as their permanent manager. The 44-year-old took over as interim manager in March after Gary Caldwell departed to join Wigan Athletic. This marks Taylor's second tenure at the club, having previously succeeded long-serving manager Paul Tisdale in June 2018. His first spell saw Exeter promoted from League Two in 2022 before he left for Rotherham United, later managing Bristol Rovers before returning earlier this year. ## Relegation ends league one campaign Matt Taylor was unable to prevent Exeter City from suffering relegation from League One on the final day of the season. The Grecians finished in a position that confirmed their drop to the third tier. Club officials stated they evaluated multiple candidates before finalizing Taylor's permanent appointment. "Coming back to Exeter reminded me just how special this club is," Taylor remarked. ## Chairman cites Taylor's club knowledge Club chairman Wilf Walsh emphasized Taylor's deep understanding of Exeter's supporter-owned structure and academy system as key factors in his appointment. "He understands every aspect of the club," Walsh stated. Taylor acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting the need for squad rebuilding and reliance on young talent from the academy. "We know we will need to rely on the young players, ideally through the academy system and this is one area where I have a great deal of experience." ## Taylor's playing and coaching legacy Taylor, a former Exeter City captain, helped the club secure back-to-back promotions from what is now the National League to League One between 2008 and 2009. During his playing career at Exeter from 2007 to 2011, he scored 20 goals in 162 appearances. After leaving in 2011, he played for clubs including Charlton Athletic, Bradford, and Cheltenham before returning to Exeter as an academy coach. He later became the under-23s manager, succeeding Paul Tisdale in June 2018. ## Promotion and play-off heartbreak In his second season in charge, Taylor guided Exeter to a fifth-placed finish in League Two but the club lost in the 2020 play-off final to Northampton Town. Two years later, he led the Grecians to promotion after finishing second in League Two, narrowly missing out on the title to Forest Green Rovers on goal difference. His second spell as interim manager this season ended in relegation despite securing just one victory. ## Financial challenges and squad changes Exeter City now faces significant financial constraints following last season's losses, prompting Taylor to warn of "drastic" squad cuts this summer. Several experienced players, including Ilmari Niskanen and Josh Magennis, have already left at the end of their contracts. Taylor expressed gratitude to supporters for their backing, highlighting the club's loyal fanbase over two decades. "Over the 20 years I have been involved with the club they have time and again proved their loyalty and commitment," he said. ## Focus on academy and local talent Taylor stressed the importance of developing young players from the academy alongside more senior squad members. He expressed a desire to field more local players who reflect the community, hoping supporters will support them with patience. "We want to have more local players, players who have grown up in the area and truly reflect the fact they are 'one of our own'. We know our supporters appreciate this aspect of the club and perhaps are prepared to be more understanding and give them a little more time." ## Closer look at Taylor's return Taylor's reappointment reflects a strategic choice for the fan-owned club, which must implement significant budget reductions following relegation and financial difficulties. His familiarity with the club spans his playing days, coaching roles, and managerial tenure, making him uniquely qualified. During his first spell, he oversaw the development of academy talents like Joel Randall, Josh Key, and Archie Collins. Signings such as Sam Nombe and Ryan Bowman also left the club for transfer fees. ## Path to league one rebuild With Exeter now in League Two, Taylor faces the task of rebuilding a competitive side while navigating financial constraints. The club's respected academy system will play a crucial role in his rebuilding plans. His previous experience in bringing through young players and making shrewd signings will be vital as the Grecians aim to return to League One promptly. Taylor's deep ties to the club and its supporters are seen as assets in this challenging period.