New job, sacked, return plotted – where every Derby County manager from the last 20 years is now
Over the past two decades, **Derby County** has seen a revolving door of managers take the helm — each with their own ambitions, philosophies, and challenges. From Premier League dreams to Championship survival struggles and League One rebuilds, the club’s managerial history is rich with drama and transformation. Today, we take a comprehensive look at where each of Derby County’s managers from the last 20 years is now — whether they’re enjoying success in new roles, reflecting on abrupt exits, or plotting a return to the touchline.
Starting in the early 2000s, **George Burley** held the reins between 2003 and 2005, and after stints at Hearts and Southampton, he largely faded from high-profile management, with his most recent involvement coming in advisory roles and youth development projects.
**Billy Davies**, remembered for guiding Derby to the Premier League in 2007, was sacked after a poor top-flight start. He later had an up-and-down spell at Nottingham Forest but hasn’t managed since 2014. Though linked to various jobs over the years, Davies has stayed away from the dugout, opting instead for media work and personal business interests.
**Paul Jewell**, who succeeded Davies, endured a difficult time with Derby and never truly recovered his reputation afterward. His last major managerial job came at Ipswich Town, and though he briefly assisted at Swindon, he has since moved into player representation and behind-the-scenes football roles.
Then came **Nigel Clough**, one of the most notable tenures in recent Derby memory. After leaving Pride Park in 2013, Clough managed Sheffield United, Burton Albion (twice), and most recently Mansfield Town. Known for his calm demeanor and ability to work with tight budgets, Clough remains active in the game.
**Steve McClaren** had two separate spells with Derby, including a near-promotion campaign. After a stint with England and a few jobs abroad, McClaren most recently returned to Manchester United in a coaching capacity under Erik ten Hag. Despite previous setbacks, he remains respected in coaching circles.
**Paul Clement**, the former Real Madrid assistant, had a brief Derby spell in 2015-16. After managing Reading and working again with Carlo Ancelotti, Clement took a break from management but is now involved in elite youth development and technical advising abroad.
**Gary Rowett** guided Derby to the playoffs in 2018 but left for Stoke City soon after. He later managed Millwall until 2023 and is now a free agent, reportedly weighing options for a potential Championship return.
**Frank Lampard**, whose Derby side reached the playoff final in 2019, quickly moved on to Chelsea and later Everton. After his recent dismissal from Stamford Bridge during an interim return, Lampard is reportedly taking time to reflect while remaining linked to future Premier League or international coaching roles.
**Phillip Cocu** followed, but his philosophy never quite clicked. After leaving Derby in 2020, the Dutchman returned to manage VVV-Venlo and is quietly rebuilding his reputation back in the Netherlands.
Most recently, **Wayne Rooney** took charge during Derby’s most turbulent financial era. Despite his efforts, relegation was unavoidable. He then managed D.C. United in MLS and had a short-lived stint at Birmingham City. Currently without a club, Rooney is said to be open to new opportunities, possibly abroad.
