Wales has parted ways with manager Rob Page after three and a half years, following a series of disappointing performances that culminated in the failure to qualify for Euro 2024. The decision came after dismal friendly displays against Gibraltar and Slovakia this month.
Page, 49, who led Wales to their first World Cup in 64 years and guided them to the second round of Euro 2020, has faced mounting criticism, particularly after an underwhelming showing at the 2022 World Cup and a shocking home defeat to Armenia during the Euro 2024 qualifiers. Although Wales responded with a notable victory over Croatia, their hopes of reaching another European Championship were dashed when they lost to Poland in a penalty shootout during the play-off final in March.
Despite initial support from the Football Association of Wales (FAW) following the play-off disappointment, including an endorsement from president Steve Williams for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, FAW bosses decided that a change was necessary. FAW chief football officer Dave Adams expressed gratitude for Page’s contributions, saying, “I would like to thank Rob for his work with the association over the last seven years, firstly as the under-21s head coach and then onto the role of Cymru [Wales] head coach.”
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney also praised Page’s tenure: “Under Rob Page’s leadership, our Cymru men’s team has achieved significant milestones and victories which have created many incredible memories for our nation, most notably our first World Cup in 64 years.”
Page’s tenure saw both highs and lows. He initially took over as Wales boss in November 2020, temporarily replacing Ryan Giggs before securing the position permanently. He led Wales to the top tier of the Nations League and through the group stages of Euro 2020, although they were eliminated by Denmark in the second round. Under his guidance, Wales qualified for the World Cup by beating Ukraine in a play-off, but their campaign in Qatar ended early with only one point from three group matches.
The recent international window proved particularly tough, with a youthful Wales side drawing with Gibraltar and a stronger lineup suffering a 4-0 defeat against Slovakia. Page faced heavy criticism and boos from fans following these results, acknowledging their dissatisfaction: “They [Wales’ fans] want me out. I completely understand. I’ve got to stay true to myself and focused on the job in hand. Everything else is out of my control,” he said after the Slovakia defeat.
Page’s overall record with Wales includes 45 matches, with 15 wins, 15 draws, and 15 losses (including the shootout defeat to Poland). As Wales looks ahead, their next match is the Nations League opener against Turkey on September 6, followed by a trip to Montenegro three days later. World Cup qualifying for European nations begins in spring 2025.
