Carlisle United part ways with Mark Hughes as Rob Elliot takes charge

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Former Premier League manager Mark Hughes has left Carlisle United by “mutual agreement” with the recently-departed Gateshead boss Rob Elliot taking over.

The 62-year-old has left Brunton Park after the Blues finished third in the National League with 95 points, but suffered play-off heartbreak as the club failed to secure an immediate return to the Football League.

Zak Brunt’s extra-time winner sent Boreham Wood to Wembley and ended Carlisle’s promotion hopes on the spot.

Elliot, the former Newcastle United and Charlton Athletic goalkeeper whose departure from Gateshead was confirmed on Wednesday, has now been appointed as Hughes’ replacement.

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Attacking football

In his first words as the new Carlisle manager, he said: “This is a huge club and opportunity, and I’m really excited to get started.

“I want us to play attacking, aggressive football with and without the ball.

“We want to win, we want the players to enjoy it and want the fans to be excited to turn up and watch a team that plays good football with an identity but more importantly gives absolutely everything for the badge.

“We want to be adaptable – we want to get to know and understand the players we have to get the best out of them on the training ground and in games.”

He added: “We want to have a clear plan when coming up against opposition. But we always want to be positive, aggressive and brave.

“I really like the owners’ vision for the club. Carlisle is a one club city and that matters.

“I know what it feels like when a football club is at the heart of a city, how important it is that the team represent the fans, people and the community.

“I know how much this means to the Piatak family too. And they want the best for not just the club but the community as well.

“Everyone I have spoken to at the club has been excellent with me. There is a strong squad, there is young talent coming through and there is a real opportunity to build something that people can feel part of.

“This is a brilliant football club, with real ambition, and a fantastic fanbase – I can’t wait to get started.”

Progress

Hughes, the former Wales, Blackburn Rovers, Stoke City and Manchester City boss, took charge of Carlisle in February 2025 before the club’s relegation from League Two.

Although Carlisle were unable to secure an immediate return to the EFL, the club paid tribute to Hughes’ impact in a statement announcing his departure.

It read: “The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Mark for his professionalism, commitment and leadership during his time at Brunton Park.

“Last season marked significant progress, with the side finishing third in the Enterprise National League with 95 points and reaching the play-offs.

“While everyone connected with the club was disappointed not to achieve promotion, Mark played an important role in stabilising the team and helping to move the club forward.”

Chairman Tom Piatak said of Hughes’ departure: “Mark has conducted himself with real professionalism throughout his time at Carlisle United.

“We are grateful for the work he has done, the standards he brought, and the progress made during the season.

“Following open and respectful discussions, both parties agreed this was the right time for the club to move in a different direction.

“Mark leaves with our thanks and best wishes, and he will always be welcome at Brunton Park.”

Next step

The club confirmed that first-team coach Frankie McAvoy has also left the club.

On the arrival of Elliot, Piatak said: “Last season brought more stability on the pitch, a third-place finish and a squad that had started to move in the right direction. 

“Rob’s appointment is about building on that progress and taking the next step. He has energy, drive and a clear sense of how he wants his teams to play.

“He has shown he can come into a football club, make an impact quickly, build belief and get players moving in the right direction. 

“We have a young, athletic and dynamic squad, and we believe Rob’s leadership, communication and coaching style will suit this group well.  

“He understands the importance of winning, but also the importance of building something with purpose.

“I would also like to thank everyone who has contributed throughout this process.

“A number of people have given their time, insight and support, and I would especially like to thank Paul Hart for his guidance and experience.

“His input has been valuable as we have worked through this decision carefully and professionally. 

“We are excited to welcome Rob to Carlisle United and look forward to working with him.”

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