Robbie Savage Appointed as New Manager

Forest Green Rovers have officially announced the appointment of Robbie Savage as their new manager, following the departure of Steve Cotterill last week. Savage, a former Wales international midfielder, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the team.

Savage's Vision for Forest Green

In a club statement, Savage expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I feel I have an opportunity to develop a squad to create an attacking brand of football - an aggressive form of football to try and get Forest Green back into the EFL." He emphasized the importance of a fast, exciting style of play but reiterated that winning games remains the top priority.

A Storied Career

Savage's football career spans over 17 years, during which he played for notable clubs such as Leicester, Derby, Blackburn, and Birmingham. He also earned 39 caps for Wales. Since 2024, Savage has been managing non-league side Macclesfield FC, where he successfully led the team to promotion to the National League North.

Challenges Ahead

Forest Green Rovers finished third in the National League last season but were defeated by Southend in the play-offs, missing out on a place in the Wembley final. Savage's appointment marks a significant moment as it is his first managerial role in the top five tiers of English football.

Strategic Partnerships

Savage will be working alongside former Wales team-mate Mark Bowen, who was appointed Forest Green's director of football last month. The duo aims to bring stability and success to the club, although the length of Savage's contract has not been disclosed.

A Family Connection

Interestingly, Savage's son, Charlie Savage, had a loan spell at Forest Green during the 2023-24 campaign, scoring one goal in 15 games. This adds a personal touch to Savage's new role, further cementing his connection with the club.

Looking Forward

Savage's appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for Forest Green Rovers, as they look to climb back into the EFL. With his extensive experience and ambitious vision, Savage is poised to lead the team into a new era of success.