Former Wolves, Millwall and Swansea manager Kenny Jackett dies aged 64
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers, Millwall and Swansea City manager Kenny Jackett has died at the age of 64 following a 30-year career in the English Football League.
The hugely respected coach stepped down from his final role as director of football at Gillingham on medical grounds in November 2024.
He amassed vast experience across four decades in the dugout, taking charge of more than 900 matches after beginning his managerial journey with Watford in 1996.
Success across the English Football League
The experienced tactician earned promotions with both Swansea and Millwall before taking charge at Molineux in 2013.
Arriving with the West Midlands club languishing in League One, he immediately secured promotion by winning the title at the first time of asking.
The former Watford boss subsequently made them highly competitive in the Championship, narrowly missing out on a play-off spot.
His extensive resume also included challenging spells at Rotherham United, Portsmouth and Leyton Orient.
During his tenure at Fratton Park, he guided the south coast side to consecutive EFL Trophy finals, lifting the silverware in 2019.
Tributes pour in for a ‘hugely capable leader’
Several of his former employers have released emotional statements acknowledging his profound impact on their respective histories.
Millwall Football Club is extremely saddened to announce the passing of former manager Kenny Jackett at the age of 64. Kenny managed over 300 games during his time with the club, leading The Lions to promotion from League One and to an FA Cup Semi-Final. Rest in peace, Kenny.
Wolverhampton Wanderers echoed those sentiments, highlighting his crucial role in modernising the club.
Kenny led the club to its incredible record-breaking League One title and laid the foundations for the club as we know it today. The thoughts of everyone at Wolves are with Kenny’s family and friends at this time.
League Managers Association chief executive Richard Bevan praised his lasting influence on the sport.
He embodied everything we like to see in a manager, humility, professionalism and a deep care for his players and staff. He improved every club he served and did so with quiet dignity throughout his career.
Bevan added that the much-loved figure would be remembered for an incredible sense of responsibility to his teams and to the game itself.
