Blackpool have appointed Ian Evatt as head coach on a contract to June 2027, ending a 2-week search and handing a Bloomfield Road return to a promotion-winning former defender.
The 43-year-old inherits a side sitting 24th in League One after 2 wins from 13. Evatt’s first assignment is away at Peterborough United on Saturday, a basement meeting that arrives as the Seasiders try to halt an early season slide.
Club Move Quickly To Replace Flop Boss
The club has moved quickly to replace Steve Bruce, who departed in October. Evatt brings recent success from Barrow and Bolton, where his sides earned promotion and lifted the EFL Trophy.
Blackpool Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Evatt as Head Coach on a deal until June 2028.
🍊 #UTMP
— Blackpool FC (@BlackpoolFC) October 21, 2025
Blackpool need a clear identity, higher tempo, and better chance creation in open play, and Evatt’s possession-based, front-foot approach is designed to provide exactly that.
On taking the job, Evatt spoke of ambition and reconnection between the team and supporters.
“It’s incredibly emotional to return here and to be given this opportunity.
“I know first-hand what this Club and its supporters can achieve together. We all want to see fearless attacking football where Bloomfield Road is a really tough place for any team to play.
“It’s a real honour to be back here as Head Coach and I cannot wait to meet the players and to get started.”
Owner Simon Sadler framed the appointment as a reset and a targeted fit for the current squad.
“I’m delighted to welcome Ian back to the football club, in what is a vital appointment.
“His impressive managerial record at this level, strong technical knowledge of the game alongside a passion and enthusiasm to return to the Club makes him the ideal fit.”
What Do Blackpool Need Now?
Short term, Evatt must stabilise a team conceding at key moments and struggling for control between the boxes. Expect immediate emphasis on structured build-up, braver positioning from full backs, and cleaner connections into the front line.
Blackpool are set to confirm the appointment of former player Ian Evatt as their new manager. #bfc #UTMP pic.twitter.com/ZHo5v5Vy9l
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) October 20, 2025
Set pieces remain a quick lever for points in League One, so delivery, blocking schemes, and restart structure will be priority items across the first training block. Fitness data suggests minutes management is also crucial, particularly across a congested run into November. A
Medium term, the aim is to lift floor performances at Bloomfield Road. A consistent press trigger, faster regains, and improved spacing around second balls should make home games less volatile. The ownership views this appointment as a means to restore identity and reconnect with fans who have continued to travel in strong numbers despite the start.
Peterborough away is a live measuring stick. A positive tilt, cleaner rest-defence, and a stronger restart plan would signal the first steps of an Evatt blueprint. Points are the currency, but signs of structure will matter almost as much as Blackpool try to climb the table before the window opens.
