Tony Pulis Explains Every Path to a Manager’s Exit From Postcards to Texts

Postcards, Texts and the Final Word

BBC Sport columnist Tony Pulis has spent decades watching managers rise and fall. In a recent piece he outlined the four main ways a manager can depart a club, from a polite resignation to an abrupt dismissal. Pulis notes that the method often reflects the circumstances and the relationship between the club’s hierarchy and the manager.

Formal Resignation: A Clean Exit

When a manager chooses to leave, a written resignation letter is the standard route. Pulis says this signals respect for the club and its supporters, and often preserves the manager’s reputation for future roles. Clubs may also offer a “mutual termination” to keep the process amicable.

Sudden Dismissal: The Classic Sack

In the most dramatic scenario, the board hands a manager a pink slip, usually after a string of poor results or a high-profile loss. Pulis points out that this can happen at any time, even mid‑week, and is often accompanied by a statement from the club’s chairperson.

Contractual Termination: The Legal Exit

Some departures are governed by contract clauses. Pulis explains that if a manager breaches a key term, such as failing to achieve a league position, both parties may terminate the contract legally, avoiding a public sack.

Resignation Under Pressure: The Unspoken Exit

Managers sometimes resign after a series of negative headlines or fan unrest. Pulis notes that this can be a way to avoid the drama of a dismissal while still stepping away from the club.

Each exit route sends a different message to players, fans and the media. A resignation can signal a manager’s desire for a fresh challenge, while a dismissal often reflects deeper dissatisfaction with performance or culture.