Stoke City have been linked with a move for Coventry City manager Mark Robins as their search for a new boss continues. The Stoke Sentinel reported this week that the 56-year-old is a candidate being considered by the Championship club's hierarchy.
Robins has built a strong reputation during his long tenure at Coventry, guiding them from League Two to the Championship and establishing them as a competitive side. His potential availability has now placed him on Stoke's radar as they look to appoint a permanent successor. The Potters currently sit 13th in the Championship table with six points from their opening five games, having won two and lost three.
Who is Mark Robins and what is his record?
Mark Robins is one of the longest-serving managers in the EFL, having been in charge at Coventry City since 2017. He secured promotion from League Two in his first full season and later won the League One title in 2020. Under his leadership, Coventry have consistently punched above their weight in the Championship, often operating with a smaller budget than many rivals. His teams are known for being organised, hard-working, and difficult to break down.
His potential appointment would represent a shift towards a manager with proven experience in building projects over the long term. Stoke City's recent managerial history has seen several short-term appointments, and the club's owners are believed to be seeking stability. You can see how the squad list is shaping up on our squad page.
What is the current situation at Stoke City?
Stoke are operating with a caretaker management team following the departure of their previous manager. The search for a permanent appointment is ongoing, with several names being assessed. The club's early season form has been mixed, with two wins and three losses leaving them five points behind early leaders Swansea City. They have scored eight goals but conceded nine, giving them a negative goal difference.
The squad is also dealing with a significant injury list. Currently sidelined are Aaron Cresswell, Ato Ampah, Ben Gibson, Bosun Lawal, Junior Tchamadeu, and Sam Gallagher. This has limited options for the interim coaching staff. The full extent of the availability issues is tracked on our injuries page.
What would Robins bring to the bet365 Stadium?
Robins would bring a clear identity and a track record of improving teams with a coherent style of play. His work at Coventry involved developing young players and implementing a effective counter-attacking system. He is also familiar with the demands of the Championship, having managed in the division for several seasons.
For Stoke, his appointment could signal a commitment to a longer-term vision rather than a quick fix. The club has invested heavily in its squad in recent years but has struggled to consistently challenge for promotion. A manager with Robins' pedigree in building sustainable success could be an attractive proposition. The current league standings show the competitive nature of the division Stoke are aiming to climb.
What happens next for Stoke?
The immediate focus is on the next Championship fixture, an away trip to face Watford on September 12th. Watford currently sit 17th in the table, making it a key match for both sides. Any new managerial appointment would likely want to be in place before that game to begin implementing their ideas.
The club's decision-makers will continue their due diligence on all candidates, with Robins understood to be one of several under serious consideration. His contractual situation at Coventry and any compensation required would be factors in any potential move. Stoke City's next manager will take charge of a team that has shown both promise and inconsistency in the early stages of the 2026-27 campaign.
