Bristol Rovers have confirmed Inigo Calderon as their new head coach, signing the Spaniard to a two-and-a-half-year deal.
The 42-year-old arrives from Brighton & Hove Albion, where he served as Under-18s manager since June 2023. His appointment follows the dismissal of Matt Taylor earlier this month.
Calderon, a former Brighton player who made over 200 appearances between 2010 and 2016, will be stepping into his first senior managerial role. Bristol Live understands that a small compensation fee was paid to secure his release from Brighton.
Director of football George Friend praised Calderon’s appointment in the club’s official statement:
“I am delighted to welcome Inigo to the club and have him on board as our new head coach. Inigo is someone I have followed for a long time, both as a player and as a coach, and he already has a thorough understanding of English football and the culture of the game here.
“Inigo is an excellent coach and what has become obviously clear from our conversations is that he is full of the character, ambition and enthusiasm to not only be the best head coach he can, but to help drive Bristol Rovers to success too. We are all excited for what Inigo will bring to our squad, our staff, and our supporters.”
Immediate Challenges Await
The Gas are currently 19th in League One, just three points above the relegation zone. Despite their precarious position, a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Wrexham on Saturday offered some hope. Calderon is expected to watch from the stands when Rovers face Exeter City this afternoon before officially taking charge on Friday. His first match in the dugout will be an away trip to Stevenage on December 29.
Following that, Rovers face a packed schedule, including matches against Leyton Orient on New Year’s Day and Cambridge United on January 4, before a high-profile FA Cup tie at Premier League side Ipswich Town on January 12.
Backroom Reshuffle
Alongside Calderon’s arrival, the club has announced the return of Kevin Bond as first-team coach. Bond, who previously worked at Rovers during the 2021/22 promotion campaign, rejoins for a third stint. Meanwhile, Lee Cattermole has departed the club after a brief tenure.
Writer’s View
Calderon’s appointment represents a calculated risk for Bristol Rovers. While he brings a wealth of experience from his playing days and youth coaching at Brighton, his lack of senior managerial experience could be a challenge. However, his deep understanding of English football and a proven ability to work with young players might inject much-needed energy and tactical discipline. With relegation a real threat, Calderon’s immediate focus will be on steadying the ship and turning potential into points.
