Oxford United plot shock Liam Manning reunion after Rowett dismissal

Oxford United are weighing up the possibility of reappointing former head coach Liam Manning as they search for a new manager following the dismissal of Gary Rowett, according to sources speaking to Football Insider.

Rowett was relieved of his duties after a deeply disappointing run of results, having overseen only four victories from 22 Championship fixtures. That poor return has left Oxford languishing in 22nd place in the table, sitting just two points above the relegation zone and under serious threat of an immediate return to League One. With survival now the clear priority, the club’s hierarchy are moving quickly to identify a replacement capable of turning their fortunes around.

One of the names under consideration is Michael Beale, who is understood to be firmly in the conversation. However, attention has increasingly turned toward a potential reunion with Manning, a move that would come as a surprise to many given the circumstances of his previous departure. Manning left the Kassam Stadium in November 2023, midway through the season, a decision that generated mixed reactions among supporters at the time.

Oxford United can confirm that Gary Rowett has left his role as Men’s First Team Head Coach.

The Club would like to place on record its thanks to Gary for his contribution to the Football Club.https://t.co/vttxpQKyO9 pic.twitter.com/pvBb6BuM46

— Oxford United (@OUFCOfficial) December 23, 2025

Since leaving Oxford, the 40-year-old has gone on to manage both Bristol City and Norwich City. His time at Ashton Gate lasted close to two years and included periods of promise, while his stint with Norwich proved far less successful. Manning managed just 17 matches with the Canaries, recording a win percentage of only 18 per cent before his tenure came to an early end. With Philippe Clement now installed as Norwich’s head coach, Manning is currently out of work and available, making him an appealing option for clubs seeking an experienced but attainable manager.

Despite the turbulence of his exit, Manning’s record during his previous spell with Oxford compares favourably to the club’s current situation. During his time in charge in 2023, he won nearly half of his matches, registering a 48 per cent win rate. He also collected a Manager of the Month award, underlining the progress the team made before his departure to Bristol City. Those achievements have not been forgotten by everyone connected to the club, and they may help explain why his name has resurfaced at such a critical moment.

Sources suggest that Manning may currently be viewed as the leading candidate, with Beale slightly further down the pecking order. However, there remains uncertainty over whether Manning himself would be open to returning, particularly given the emotional response that followed his initial exit. The relationship between him and sections of the fanbase was strained at the time, though opinions may have softened as Oxford’s struggles have intensified.

Manning has previously addressed the reaction to his decision to leave, acknowledging the anger from some supporters while also framing it as evidence of how far the club had come during his tenure. He remarked that if Oxford fans disliked him, he would take that as a compliment, suggesting it reflected the ambition and progress achieved while he was in charge. He has also spoken warmly about the people behind the scenes at the club, describing them as “terrific” and hinting that there are still individuals at Oxford who would welcome his return.

With Oxford firmly embedded in the relegation battle, the pressure is on the board to make the correct appointment. The team’s recent form has been alarming, with just one win from their last ten league matches. That solitary success came in an unexpected 2–1 victory over Ipswich Town, a result that has not been backed up by consistent performances since. As the Championship season reaches a decisive stage, Oxford cannot afford another managerial gamble that fails to deliver immediate improvement.

Whether the club opts for a familiar face in Manning or turns to an alternative such as Beale, the next decision in the dugout could define Oxford United’s season and determine whether they retain their Championship status.