Millwall manager Neil Harris to step down from role this weekend

Millwall's head coach, Neil Harris, will resign from his position for a second time following the Championship match against Middlesbrough on Saturday.

The ex-Lions forward came back to the Den as the manager in February, over four years after stepping down from the position. He successfully steered the Championship team away from the threat of relegation. Millwall is currently in 11th place with 25 points after 18 games, just six points shy of the playoff spots. The club announced that a “mutual decision” was made for Harris to depart after he managed Wednesday’s match against Sheffield United and the game in Teesside.

In a letter posted on the club's website, Harris expressed, "Making this decision hasn’t been simple. This club means so much to me; it's more than just a job—it's my home and will forever be part of me. Whether as a player, captain, or manager, I've always felt a sense of belonging here. We’re a family, and this place has been a huge part of my life for many years. I've always maintained that I'd step away when the moment felt right, and I believe that moment has arrived."

Returning last season was an unforgettable experience filled with incredible moments. It stands out as a top highlight in my career. We battled side by side as a team, alongside our fans, creating a strong sense of unity within the club. Our squad has some truly remarkable individuals who are committed and eager to succeed. With the right motivation and backing, I have no doubt they can accomplish amazing feats.

"I want to express my gratitude to everyone at the club for their dedication and encouragement, particularly to the owner, James Berylson, who welcomed me back with open arms. It has been a pleasure collaborating with him, and I truly appreciate the strong bond we’ve formed. Our fans are the most devoted in the nation, and your backing has been incredibly meaningful to me. While we sometimes face misconceptions, it’s the distinctiveness of Millwall that makes us truly remarkable."

Harris, who holds the record as Millwall’s top scorer throughout the club's history, guided the team to rise from League One during his initial tenure as manager from 2015 to 2019. Up until Saturday’s 1-0 loss at home to Coventry, the team had been enjoying a nine-match unbeaten run in the Championship. This defeat led Harris to address some of the more critical concerns expressed by the club's supporters.

“People need to stop dreaming and recognize the progress we've made and the challenges we face as a team,” he expressed. “We're missing Romain [Esse], Japhet [Tanganga], and Jake Cooper—three key players who would likely fit into any Championship squad. Just a little reminder for those who don't understand that when you remove our top three players, it really affects Millwall Football Club.”

The Lions announced that they will provide details about their temporary management plans after Neil's last game on Saturday at the appropriate time.