David Gray has left his position as Hibernian manager on Wednesday evening, concluding a complex chapter at Easter Road characterized more by sadness than satisfaction. After twelve years as a player, a Scottish Cup-winning icon, and various coaching roles, Gray exits to collective relief from supporters rather than the euphoria associated with his legendary status.
Despite the painful conclusion, no fans booed the man they affectionately called Sir David Gray, largely due to his pivotal role in the club’s historic 2016 Scottish Cup victory at Hampden. However, the team’s current form made his dismissal inevitable. Hibs have suffered six straight league defeats at home, equalling a grim record dating back to 1920, and dropped to ninth in the table after a loss to Kilmarnock on Tuesday.
Gray’s tenure was marked by significant highs and lows. He became the first Hibs manager since Eddie Turnbull in the early 1970s to guide the club to European qualification in consecutive seasons. Additionally, he achieved the rare feat of winning at Ibrox in three successive seasons and secured a victory at Celtic Park last year.
Yet, the flipside of his record is equally stark. The club wasted two opportunities to reach the European Conference League play-offs in self-defeating fashion. Their recent League Cup semi-final run against Hearts was insufficient to secure his job, as the team’s style of play was often criticized for lacking energy and entertainment.
The contrast with rivals Hearts was palpable. While Hibs appeared rudderless, Hearts manager Alfred Johansson, succeeding Jens Berthel Askou, has fostered a compelling team identity that has kept their fanbase fully engaged. Many believe Hibs possess a squad capable of higher performance, yet underachievement has been widespread.
Gray’s time in charge was also defined by a recurrent vulnerability to late goals. In the 2024-25 season, concessions in the final minutes cost points against teams including Kilmarnock, Ross County, and Dundee United. This pattern persisted into the current campaign, with costly goals against Motherwell and Gent contributing to their European exit.
Leadership figures within the club, including sporting director Malky Mackay, chairman Ian Gordon, and chief executive Dan Barnett, now face scrutiny alongside the players. Gordon is expected to lead the search for Gray’s replacement, though questions remain about the level of trust fans have in the hierarchy to make the right appointment.
Gray leaves behind a mixed legacy. His first season saw him rescue the club from the bottom of the table to finish third, while last season ended in fifth place. Although some argue he deserved more time given these results, the pressure from Hearts’ rise and the team’s inconsistent performances ultimately led to his departure. Gray is expected to view the sacking harshly, believing he could have replicated his earlier rescue acts, but Hibernian are now back at the drawing board seeking consistency.
Interesting how Hearts look so sharp under Johansson while Hibs seem completely lost. Just a stark contrast in style.
Does anyone actually trust Mackay and Gordon to find a sensible replacement? We’ve seen this movie before.
Six straight home losses is unacceptable. No amount of legacy excuses a team this toothless at Easter Road.
Sad to see him go, but that away record against the Old Firm was genuinely historic. The board should have protected him longer.