Neil Harris, Millwall’s all-time leading goalscorer and club icon, has announced his decision to step down as manager following Saturday’s game against Middlesbrough.
In an emotional letter shared on the club’s website, Harris described the decision as “not an easy one” but felt it was the right moment to part ways during his second stint in charge of the Lions.
Harris’s Impact and Recent Performances
Harris returned to manage Millwall in February, over four years after his first spell, during which he secured promotion from League One. His second tenure began with a mission to rescue the team from relegation, which he achieved impressively. Under his guidance this season, Millwall are currently 11th in the Championship with 25 points from 18 matches, only six points shy of the play-off spots.
However, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Coventry City on Saturday marked the end of a nine-match unbeaten streak. Following the match, Harris expressed frustration, both with the result and with segments of the Millwall fanbase, stating:
“You miss Romain [Esse], you miss Japhet [Tanganga] and you miss Jake Cooper. Three players that probably get in anybody’s Championship team. So just a reminder to people, the thickos, that when you take the three best players out of the team that this is Millwall Football Club.”
Neil Harris’s Farewell Letter
“Today I am announcing that I will be leaving Millwall Football Club after Saturday’s game against Middlesbrough.
“This isn’t an easy decision, as everyone knows this club is more than a job to me, it’s my club, and always will be. Being here always felt like home, as a player, as a captain, and as a manager. We are a family, and it’s been my life for so many years.
“But I always said when I returned that I would leave when the time felt right, and now is that time.
“We have some special characters in this team. They are dedicated and hungry to do well. With the right encouragement and support, I’m sure they can achieve great things.”
Harris extended gratitude to Millwall chairman James Berylson and the club’s loyal supporters, concluding: “We have the most passionate fans in the country, and your support has meant the world to me.”
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
