Chris Wilder sacked by Sheffield United after failed play-off campaign
The 57 year old's second spell at Bramhall Lane has come to an end
Last updated 18th Jun 2025
Sheffield United have sacked manager Chris Wilder after a failed bid to return the club to the Premier League.
Blades reached the Championship play-off final but were ultimately defeated 2 - 1 by Sunderland.
Wilder has long been associated with the South Yorkshire club, having played for them over two spells in the 1980s and 1990s.
His first spell in charge at Bramall Lane from 2016 saw him push Blades from the depths of League One all the way up to the Premier League.
He ultimately left by mutual consent in March 2021 after United finished bottom of the league and were once again relegated.
United returned to the Premier League for the 23/24 season but failed to stay in the top flight.
He returned to Blades in December 2023 after spells with Middlesbrough and Watford.
In a statement, Sheffield United wrote: "Sheffield United can confirm a mutually agreed decision has been reached for manager Chris Wilder to leave the football club."
"Chris will leave alongside coaches Alan Knill and Matt Prestridge, and in doing so depart with the best wishes and gratitude of everyone connected with Sheffield United."
In his own statement, Wilder wrote: "It is with great regret that my time at Sheffield United has come to an end."
"I'd like to thank Stephen Bettis and Prince Abdullah for bringing me back to the club and giving me the opportunity to rebuild the team and take this great club forward.
"I'd also like to thank all the staff at the club, everyone behind the scenes that you don't often see, and, of course, the players who put in a monumental effort last season, it has been a pleasure working with you, your desire and commitment was unquestionable and I have no doubt you will have great success in the future.
"To the fans, I'm obviously disappointed to be leaving, particularly because we were so close to getting back to the Premier League.
"I'm a Sheffielder through and through, I love this club and this city and that feeling will never change.
"I depart with some cherished memories and feel proud to be talked about in the same manner that special Sheffield United managers are remembered - leading this team over 300 times will remain an incredible part of my life. This is a heartfelt thank you for all your support."