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Man Utd legend Mark Hughes leaves Carlisle United after failing to secure promotion

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Mark Hughes has left his role as Carlisle United head coach after their promotion bid came to a crashing end in the National League play-offs.

In February, Mark Hughes became Carlisle United head coach and was unable to save the club from relegation.

The former Manchester United striker remained in charge, hoping to take Carlisle United back to League Two, but they were unable to beat Boreham Wood in the National League play-off semi-final.

That means Carlisle United will be playing in the National League again next season, but they won’t have any guidance from Hughes on the touchline.

Mark Hughes unhappy during Carlisle United v Boreham Wood
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images

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Mark Hughes steps away from Carlisle United job

Hughes now finds himself unemployed after walking away from the Carlisle United job.

Carlisle United confirmed Hughes’ exit in a statement on Thursday, while acknowledging the progress made last season.

“Mark has conducted himself with real professionalism throughout his time at Carlisle United,” said chairman Tom Piatak.

“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.”

Hughes arrived at Carlisle after previously managing Wales, Man City, Blackburn, Fulham, QPR, Stoke City, Southampton and Bradford City.

Although he’s never won a trophy as a manager or head coach, Hughes did win Premier League Manager of the Month in October 2007.

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Michael Carrick applauds the fans during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on May 17, 2026, in Manchester, United Kingdom.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Mark Hughes’ managerial record against Man Utd

Hughes hasn’t coached in the top flight in some time, but he has faced United on 26 occasions as a manager.

Winning just four of those matches, he also suffered 13 defeats – as well as nine draws.

The last time Hughes managed against United was in the 2018/19 season when his Southampton side hosted the Red Devils to a 2-2 draw.

United came from behind to secure a point thanks to goals from Romelu Lukaku and Ander Herrera.