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Forest Green identifies Robbie Savage as next head coach after sacking Steve Cotterill following play-off heartbreak in Nailsworth

Forest Green identifies Robbie Savage
Forest Green identifies Robbie Savage

Just weeks after celebrating a stunning season with Macclesfield, Robbie Savage appears to be packing his bags—and not for a vacation.

The former Wales international is reportedly set to become Forest Green Rovers’ next head coach, marking a bold new chapter in his fast-moving coaching career.

Forest Green Clears the Deck After Play-Off Disappointment

Forest Green recently parted ways with manager Steve Cotterill after a painful exit in the National League play-offs.

Despite finishing the season in third place, they were knocked out by Southend United on penalties, missing out on a Wembley final—and, ultimately, promotion.

Following that letdown, the club has wasted no time moving forward.

Chairman Dale Vince confirmed a new manager will be announced on Tuesday, and all signs point directly at Savage.

Savage Steps Away from Macclesfield Role

To fuel the speculation even further, Savage has now officially stepped down from his director role at Macclesfield, where he was both a part-owner and the team’s manager.

According to Companies House filings, his resignation clears the way for what many expect to be his unveiling as Forest Green’s new boss.

Savage had taken charge at Macclesfield just last season after a stint as their director of football.

Under his leadership, the team stormed to promotion from the Northern Premier League to the National League North—racking up an eye-watering 109 points, finishing 26 ahead of second place.

Loyalty Statements Now Under the Microscope

Interestingly, Savage only signed a new two-year contract with Macclesfield last month.

At the time, he gave an emotional nod to the club’s achievements, calling it a journey he didn’t want to walk away from.

“It’s a club that means the world to me,” Savage said back then.

“Three promotions in four years, an FA Trophy semi-final, a record-breaking season—how could I leave that dressing room?”

But despite that declaration of loyalty, it seems the opportunity at Forest Green may have proved too tempting to resist.

Long-Time Connections May Have Played a Role

It’s no secret that Savage shares a strong relationship with Forest Green’s director of football, Mark Bowen.

The two played together for Wales during their international days, and that bond could have smoothed the path to a deal behind the scenes.

According to reports from The Mirror, Savage even turned down approaches from clubs in higher divisions to stay focused on projects that matched his personal vision—making Forest Green an intriguing and perhaps sentimental fit.

What’s Next for Macclesfield?

As Savage prepares to move on, Macclesfield suddenly finds itself in search of a new manager.

And one name already being floated? Wayne Rooney.

The former Manchester United star is currently out of work after his recent dismissal from Plymouth Argyle and could be the headline replacement Macclesfield needs to maintain momentum.