Bristol Rovers head coach Inigo Calderon has expressed his desire to stay at the club despite their relegation to League Two being confirmed earlier this week.
Calderon, who joined Rovers on Boxing Day as Matt Taylor’s successor, was speaking ahead of the club’s final match of the season at Blackpool. While the Spaniard insists he wants to help rebuild the side after a turbulent season, he admits the decision lies with the club’s hierarchy.
The former Brighton and Hove Albion youth coach oversaw a promising start to his tenure, picking up six wins in his first 15 league games and lifting Rovers nine points clear of danger. However, a dramatic collapse in form—just one point from the last nine games—ultimately sealed their fate.
“Obviously I would like to stay here, especially because I think the business hasn’t been done for me,” Calderon said. “I feel a big part of that relegation, big time. But it’s true that it’s not up to me. I have to have a conversation with the board and I think they have to make a great decision because obviously next year is going to be massive.”
Decision Day Approaching
Calderon, who has never previously managed at senior level, still has one fixture left in charge, with Rovers travelling to Blackpool—a repeat of their last relegation finale. Whether it will be his final match at the helm remains unclear.
The club’s new director of football, Ricky Martin, is expected to play a key role in deciding the manager’s future. If a change is made, Rovers would be seeking their fourth permanent boss in just 18 months.
Despite a dismal end to the campaign, Calderon remains optimistic about the club’s potential and praised the loyalty of the fanbase.
“I see a lot of good things in this football club. Even after such a bad run, I still feel the support from a lot of the supporters. For me, that’s like I have to give you something back… I haven’t been too long here but I really understand and enjoy the philosophy and the mentality of the fans here… they’re so loyal.”
Writer’s View
Inigo Calderon’s passion for Bristol Rovers is clear, and his willingness to take responsibility is commendable. But sentiment alone won’t mask a brutal collapse in form. With a new director of football in place and the need for a strong rebuild in League Two, the board faces a pivotal decision. Calderon has shown heart—but whether he has the experience to lead Rovers back up is the question they must now answer.
