Tony Mowbray returns as Blackburn Rovers head coach in 2026

Blackburn Rovers named Tony Mowbray as their new head coach after his second stint was confirmed.

New appointment confirmed Blackburn Rovers have finalised the appointment of Tony Mowbray as their head coach, marking his return to the dugout for a second tenure at the club. Mowbray, aged 62, previously managed Rovers for over five years, from 2017 until 2022. His new role comes after the club decided not to extend Michael O'Neill's interim period at the end of last season. The decision to bring Mowbray back follows a search for a permanent leader after O'Neill chose not to take on the position full-time. ## Coaching background revealed Mowbray brings over two decades of managerial experience to his role at Blackburn, having led clubs such as Sunderland, Birmingham, and West Brom after his initial spell at Rovers concluded. His first management stint at Blackburn saw him guide the team for more than half a decade before his departure. The club's recent search for a new head coach saw him re-emerge as a candidate. His return is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team's leadership structure. ## Previous leadership transition Michael O'Neill took charge of Blackburn on an interim basis during the latter part of the previous season after stepping into the role temporarily. His interim period ended without a permanent appointment, prompting the club to pursue other options. O'Neill was approached about the permanent position but opted not to accept it. This left the door open for Mowbray to return to Ewood Park.