Barrow sacks Dino Maamria after turbulent spell
League Two side Barrow has sacked Dino Maamria as manager after just six matches, making him the third boss to depart Holker Street during this turbulent campaign, reports BritPanorama.
The 54-year-old, who previously managed Burton and Oldham, secured only a single victory during his brief tenure. His departure followed a 2-0 defeat to Bristol Rovers on Tuesday evening, which proved to be the final straw for club officials.
The Bluebirds currently sit in 22nd place in League Two with 28 points, remaining outside the relegation places solely on goal difference. Fears of dropping out of the EFL have prompted the hierarchy to act decisively once again.
Midfielder Sam Foley has been appointed as interim boss and will oversee the team for the remainder of the season. Maamria’s tenure, which lasted just five matches, began the same day Gallagher was relieved of his duties. However, the appointment resulted in four losses from six fixtures, sealing Maamria’s fate.
A club statement confirmed the news, expressing gratitude for Maamria’s efforts, while acknowledging the disappointing nature of the current season marked by excessive managerial changes. The statement read: “Barrow AFC can confirm Dino Maamria has left the club today. We would like to thank Dino for his efforts and wish him well for the future.”
Reflecting the urgency of the situation, the club has scheduled a supporters’ question-and-answer session for Friday, where board members will address fans’ concerns regarding the season’s struggles.
Barrow now faces the daunting challenge of searching for a fourth permanent manager this season as they battle to maintain their Football League status. The Cumbrian club, promoted to the fourth tier in 2020 after winning the National League title, has experienced a dramatic decline in fortunes, finishing 21st and 22nd in their initial seasons back in the EFL. Following a ninth-place finish in 2022/23 and an eighth-place finish the following season, the current campaign has brought significant challenges.
The Bluebirds return to action on Saturday when they welcome Accrington Stanley to Holker Street, with kick-off at 3pm. It is a crucial fixture for a club that now finds itself in a battle against relegation, underscoring the unpredictable nature of football management where fortunes can turn in an instant.
