Blackpool Appoints Ian Evatt as New Manager from Bolton Wanderers

Blackpool FC has appointed Ian Evatt as their new manager, bringing him back to the club where he previously made 254 player appearances. This change follows a challenging period under the leadership of Bruce, who oversaw a difficult start to the current season.
Background on Ian Evatt
Ian Evatt has a rich history in football management. He began his managerial journey in June 2018 with Barrow, after briefly serving as caretaker at Chesterfield. At Barrow, he achieved a significant milestone by securing promotion to the English Football League during the disrupted 2019-20 season.
In the summer of 2020, Evatt took the helm at Bolton Wanderers in League Two. Despite an initial rough start, he successfully led the team to a third-place finish, achieving promotion to League One. Under his guidance, Bolton maintained competitiveness, finishing in the playoffs for two consecutive seasons (2022-23 and 2023-24).
Challenges at Bolton Wanderers
Evatt faced difficulties after a playoff final loss to Oxford United in May 2024. This setback was compounded by a lackluster performance in the early part of the following season, which ultimately led to his departure from Bolton in January 2025.
Blackpool’s Current Situation
Last season, Blackpool finished in ninth place in League One, but they struggled significantly at the beginning of the current campaign. Under Bruce, the team lost seven out of eleven league matches, placing them second from the bottom in the standings.
- Managerial record at Blackpool: Ian Evatt appointed as new manager.
- Previous experience: Managed Bolton Wanderers; led the team to promotion.
- Current challenges: Blackpool has not won in the league since September 20, 2024.
Looking Ahead
Evatt’s first match in charge will be against Peterborough, another team struggling in the league. His return comes with promises of instilling a fearless attacking style of play at Bloomfield Road.
Stephen Dobbie will remain as an interim coach, having managed three games with one victory, while Evatt will be supported by former Blackpool teammate Stephen Crainey.
As Blackpool seeks to reverse its fortunes, fans are optimistic about Evatt’s leadership and the potential for a more cohesive team performance.