Hired, fired, and out the door— all before he could even warm the manager’s seat! But how did it all unfold?
Football managers often experience a thrilling rollercoaster ride, but can you imagine the shock of being fired before you even get the chance to unpack your office? Well, Leroy Rosenior holds the record for the shortest managerial tenure in English football—just 10 minutes at Torquay United!
Consider the shortest managerial tenures in football—Frank de Boer spent 77 days at Crystal Palace, Brian Clough’s infamous reign at Leeds United lasted 44 days, but 10 minutes? That is an astonishingly brief reign.
The previous record holder, Dave Bassett, lasted four days at Crystal Palace in 1984. Rosenior’s 600-second reign makes even the most explosive teams seem patient.
Rosenior was no stranger to Torquay United. He previously managed them, guiding them to promotion in 2004. When the club suffered in May 2007, they went to someone they knew.
Rosenior had signed his contract and was ready to take over. But barely five minutes later, the club was sold, and the new owners had different ideas. His contract was terminated before the ink dried.
Most managers have the opportunity to oversee a training session, sign a player, or greet the team. But what about Rosenior? He didn’t even have the chance to meet the lads adequately.
He was a manager in name only and was dismissed before he could implement his tactical ideas.
Next time you’re at a football quiz, toss in this: Who has the record for the shortest managerial tenure in English football? If they say anything other than Leroy Rosenior, you know they have some football homework to do.
