“Huge boost” as Barnsley considering surprise managerial move for 46-year-old to end manageria woes
Barnsley is considering a surprising move to rehire their former manager Michael Duff, despite the 46-year-old departing the club just last summer. The team faced disappointment in the League One playoffs for the second consecutive season, suffering a defeat to Bolton Wanderers with a dramatic 5-4 aggregate score.
Despite a commendable performance in the second leg at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, where they won 3-2, Barnsley’s fate was sealed in the first leg as Bolton emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline at Oakwell.
Barnsley linked with Michael Duff reunion
Alan Nixon, through Patreon, has brought to light the discussions surrounding a possible reunion between Duff and Barnsley. The reports suggest that the Tykes are contemplating bringing back their former manager, who departed last summer to join Swansea City in the Championship.
Duff’s tenure at Swansea ended prematurely when the Welsh club dismissed him in December. Following his departure from Swansea, the 46-year-old has been without a team, and Nixon indicates that Duff is receptive to the idea of returning to Oakwell, potentially reuniting with assistant Martin Devaney.
Barnsley unable to find the right formula
Barnsley’s challenges this season have been a continuation of their struggles from the 2022/23 campaign, where they experienced the disappointment of a playoff final loss to Sheffield Wednesday due to a late goal by Josh Windass. Unable to find the winning formula for an immediate return to the Championship, they are once again aiming for promotion in the upcoming 2024/25 season.
Despite the appointment of manager Neil Collins in July 2023 and the addition of promising players like John McAtee last summer, Barnsley seemed poised for a strong comeback to the second tier. However, Collins was dismissed in April 2024 after a series of defeats to teams like Cambridge United, Charlton Athletic, and Stevenage. Caretaker manager Martin Devaney is currently steering the team until a permanent replacement for Collins is named.
A return to form in League One possible under Duff
Should Barnsley decide to reappoint Duff, they could potentially experience a resurgence in the third division. Known for favoring a counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation during his managerial tenure, Duff previously demonstrated success with a striking duo within this setup at Barnsley.
His tactical approach involves high pressing and structured play, reflecting a winning mindset honed during his time at Cheltenham Town, where he secured the League Two title. While his stint at Swansea City may have faltered due to premature career advancement, returning to a League One side like Barnsley could offer Duff ample opportunities to showcase his managerial prowess once again.
