Uwe Rösler: another short-lived Leeds United appointment
Uwe Rösler was appointed Leeds United head coach in May 2015 and took charge of the team at the start of the 2015–16 Championship season. His tenure ended in October 2015 after only 12 league matches, continuing the rapid turnover of managers under owner Massimo Cellino.
Background and appointment
Born in East Germany in 1968, Rösler had been a popular striker at Manchester City before moving into management. He built a coaching reputation with Brentford and Wigan Athletic, guiding Wigan to the 2014 FA Cup semi-finals and the Championship play-offs.
Leeds announced his appointment on 20 May 2015 as the replacement for Neil Redfearn. He inherited a club still seeking stability after a series of managerial changes and a 15th-place finish in the previous season.
The 2015–16 campaign
Rösler sought to develop a more energetic, organised side, but Leeds struggled to convert draws into victories. In his 12 Championship matches, the team managed two wins, seven draws and three defeats. Home form was particularly frustrating for supporters.
A 2–1 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on 17 October 2015 proved his final match. Leeds dismissed Rösler on 19 October, with the team in the lower half of the table.
Departure and aftermath
Steve Evans succeeded Rösler almost immediately. The change made Rösler another coach given only a few months to implement his plans during a turbulent period in Leeds’ history.
Rösler subsequently continued his coaching career in England and continental Europe. His short Leeds tenure is chiefly remembered for the club’s inability to build momentum despite a relatively modest number of defeats.