Football Feb 09, 2026

Valerien Ismael leaves Blackburn Rovers with club in Championship relegation zone

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By Admin
Sports Journalist
Valerien Ismael leaves Blackburn Rovers with club in Championship relegation zone

Valerien Ismael has left his role as Blackburn Rovers head coach.

Ismael had been at the club for 12 months, after being appointed in February 2025. But he departs with the club in the Championship relegation zone, three points adrift of safety. They have failed to win any of their last eight games.

A club statement read: "Valerien Ismael has today [Monday] left his position as Blackburn Rovers' head coach by mutual consent.

"Ismael joined the club in February 2025, however it has been mutually agreed that he will step away from his role with immediate effect, along with assistant head coach Dean Whitehead.

"Blackburn Rovers would like to thank Valerien and Dean for their efforts during their time at the club and wish them both the very best for the future.

"The club will now begin the process of appointing a new head coach and will make no further comment until an appointment is confirmed."

The club later confirmed coach Damien Johnson had been placed in temporary charge ahead of their match against Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday night. Victory would lift them out of the bottom three.

Your Site News understands Slaven Bilic is among the contenders to replace Ismael at Ewood Park.

Sheff Wed (H) - Tues 3, 7.45pm

Norwich (A) - Sat 7, 12.31pm - live on Sky

QPR (A) - Sat 14, 3pm

Preston (H) - Fri 20, 8pm - live on Sky

Bristol City (H) - Tues 24, 7.45pm - live on Sky

Derby (A) - Sat 28, 12.30pm - live on Sky

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