Barnsley reappoint Stendel as head coach

Barnsley reappoint Stendel as head coachDaniel Stendel began his coaching career in 2007 with Hanover 96, the club for which he previously played as a forward

Barnsley have reappointed Daniel Stendel as their head coach on a two-year contract.

The 52-year-old German has succeeded Conor Hourihane, who stepped down at the end of the season after the Tykes finished 15th in League One.

Stendel led Barnsley to promotion from the third tier in 2019 with a club-record 91 points, but was sacked in October of that year after a poor start to the following season.

He subsequently had spells in charge of Hearts and French club Nancy before returning to Germany to become boss of Hanover 96's second team.

"Daniel's return is about results on the pitch and identity," chairman Neerav Parekh told the club website., external

"During his first spell, the club stood for high-intensity football, belief in young players and a team that supporters could fully connect with.

"That season produced outstanding performances, an unbeaten home league campaign and a group of young players who grew together and went on to reach the highest levels of the game.

"We want to re-establish that same connection between the fans, the town and the football club – a Barnsley side that plays with energy, bravery and pride."

Stendel's contract at Oakwell contains an option for a third year.

"This is a place that means a great deal to me and I'm really looking forward to reconnecting with old friends, while also getting to know new faces around the club and in the town," he said.

"I can't wait to get back to work and start this next chapter together."

Barnsley were relegated from the Championship in 2022 and reached the League One play-offs in each of the following two seasons, losing the 2023 final at Wembley to Sheffield Wednesday.

Former captain Hourihane took over as manager in March 2025 but never had them in contention to compete for a top-six spot in 2025-26 and the club confirmed he would be leaving at the end of the season when there were four games to play.

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