Hibernian Football Club have decided to part ways with head coach David Gray as the team languishes in ninth place in the Scottish Premiership. The decision comes on the back of a disappointing run of form, highlighted by a fourth league defeat in just six matches this season when the Edinburgh side were beaten by bottom‑placed Kilmarnock on Tuesday. Although the club had managed to reach the semi‑final stage of the domestic League Cup, their European ambitions were extinguished earlier in the campaign after a loss to Belgian side Gent in the UEFA Conference League play‑off round.
That elimination, combined with a string of poor domestic results, has intensified the pressure on the coaching staff. The recent slump has also seen Hibs equal a dismal club record that dates back to 1920: six consecutive league defeats at Easter Road. The streak has left supporters and the board alike questioning the direction of the squad. Gray’s appointment was originally intended to be a long‑term solution.
After serving three separate spells as interim manager, he was given a three‑year contract in June 2024, cementing his status as the club’s permanent head coach. The 38‑year‑old former player, who hung up his boots five years ago to focus on a coaching career, is remembered fondly by many Hibernian fans for his decisive goal against Rangers in the 2016 Scottish Cup final – a strike that ended a 114‑year wait for the club to lift the trophy. His early tenure appeared promising. In his first full season at the helm, Hibs secured a third‑place finish in the 2024/25 league campaign, an improvement on the fifth‑place finish recorded the previous year.
However, the recent downturn has seen the team slip to just two points above the relegation zone, prompting the board to act. The club’s leadership now faces the uncomfortable reality that Hibernian have already cycled through five permanent managers in less than five years. Previous departures include Jack Ross in December 2021, Shaun Maloney five months later, Lee Johnson the following year, and Nick Montgomery in the summer of May 2024.
Gray’s exit adds a sixth name to that list. In the immediate aftermath, assistant coach John Potter has been named interim manager for the upcoming match against Aberdeen on Saturday. The club issued a statement indicating that a new permanent head coach will be appointed "in due course," signalling that the search for a long‑term solution is already underway. Ian Gordon, Hibernian’s executive chairman, offered a heartfelt tribute to Gray, describing him as an "inspirational figure" and a "true friend" to many within the organisation.
Gordon thanked Gray for his contributions since joining the club, highlighting his professionalism, work ethic, and the memorable moments he delivered for supporters. He also stressed that the decision to dismiss Gray was not taken lightly but was deemed necessary given the recent decline in results and overall performance. Despite the club’s statement, Gray remained defiant after the loss to Kilmarnock. In a post‑match interview with Sky Sports, he reflected on his tenure, noting that he has experienced both highs and lows with the team.
He warned against expecting constant praise during good periods while demanding criticism when results falter. Gray acknowledged the fans' frustration, admitting that the side had failed to win enough games, particularly at home, and accepted responsibility for the situation. He also reaffirmed his commitment to the club, stating that he would continue to give everything he could to reverse the fortunes of Hibernian until instructed otherwise.
"It’s a difficult time for everybody – the players, the club – because we lost again after a good result at the weekend and then failed to back it up," he said. Looking ahead, Hibernian must rebuild confidence and stability both on and off the pitch. The appointment of a new head coach will be crucial in redefining the team’s tactical approach, restoring morale, and re‑engaging a fan base that has endured a series of disappointing outcomes.
The club will also need to address underlying issues such as squad depth, injury management, and consistency in home performances if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone and re‑establish themselves as a competitive force in Scottish football. The coming weeks will be pivotal for Hibs as they navigate this transitional period. Supporters will be watching closely to see who steps into the role and how quickly the team can regain its footing after a challenging start to the season.