Hibernian sack head coach David Gray after defeat to Kilmarnock
Hibernian have parted ways with head coach David Gray following a 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock, marking the club's sixth permanent manager in five years.
Hibernian part ways with David Gray after home slump
Hibernian have sacked head coach David Gray just six games into the 2026/27 Scottish Premiership season, following a 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock at Easter Road. The decision comes after the club endured its sixth successive home league loss, a run dating back to last season and matching a record set in 1920. Gray, who captained Hibs to the 2016 Scottish Cup final victory over Rangers, became the first Premiership manager to be dismissed this season.
The 38-year-old, who joined Hibs as a player in 2014 and later transitioned to coaching, was appointed permanently in June 2024 after four interim stints. His tenure saw Hibs finish third in 2024/25 and fifth in 2025/26, securing European qualification for two consecutive seasons. However, the club’s current position in ninth place—two points above the relegation zone—prompted the board to act, citing a “recent downturn of results and performances.”
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Games managed by Gray | 107 (43 wins, 35 losses, 29 draws) |
| Home league losses | 6 (since last season, 1920 record) |
| Current league position | 9th in Scottish Premiership |
| European qualification | Back-to-back campaigns (2024/25, 2025/26) |
Gray’s legacy and defiant response
Gray, a club legend who scored the 2016 Cup-winning goal against Rangers, was lauded by Hibernian executive chairman Ian Gordon for his “attitude, professionalism, and work ethic.” Gordon stated the board “did not take the decision lightly,” acknowledging Gray’s contributions as a player, coach, and manager. However, he emphasized the necessity of change due to the team’s recent struggles.
Gray, who remained defiant after the Kilmarnock defeat, told Sky Sports: “I’ve been here during difficult times and I’ve been here during good times… I accept that [fans are frustrated]. All I can say is until someone tells me otherwise, I will be doing everything in my power to turn it around.”
The sacking also saw the departure of assistant head coach Liam Craig and goalkeeping coach Craig Samson, though their roles were not explicitly tied to the decision. Hibs now seek their sixth permanent manager in under five years, following the exits of Jack Ross (2021), Shaun Maloney (2021), Lee Johnson (2022), and Nick Montgomery (2024).
Interim leadership and future steps
Coach John Potter will assume interim charge for Hibs’ upcoming match against Aberdeen on 19 September. The club has yet to announce a timeline for appointing a permanent successor, stating only that a new head coach will be “announced in due course.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was David Gray sacked?
Hibernian’s board cited a “recent downturn of results and performances,” including six consecutive home league losses and a ninth-place league position. Despite European qualification in Gray’s first two seasons, the club’s poor start this season prompted the decision.
Who will replace Gray?
Interim coach John Potter will lead Hibs for the match against Aberdeen on 19 September. A permanent replacement has not yet been announced, though the club will begin a search for a new head coach.
What is Gray’s managerial record at Hibs?
Gray managed 107 games, recording 43 wins, 35 losses, and 29 draws. His tenure included a third-place finish in 2024/25 and fifth in 2025/26, securing European qualification each season.
The next critical test for Hibs will come in their upcoming fixture against Aberdeen, where Potter’s interim leadership will be scrutinized. Meanwhile, the search for a permanent manager could determine whether the club can avoid a deeper slump or reignite its path toward competitive success.
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