Michael Duff named new head coach of Swansea City

Swansea City has confirmed the appointment of Michael Duff as its new head coach.

Duff, a 45-year-old Northern Irishman, has secured a three-year contract with the Swans, becoming the fourth person from his homeland to helm the club.

According to the announcement, Duff will officially commence his duties this Friday, overseeing the first day of pre-season training at the Swansea.com Stadium.

He takes up the mantle after leaving Barnsley, with whom Swansea City agreed on a compensation deal.

Speaking on Duff's appointment, Swansea City Chairman Andy Coleman commended Duff's proven ability to rally players into a cohesive unit.

He stated, “Every conversation I had with him only reinforced the view that he is exactly the type of leader we need here at Swansea City. He is a proven winner, both as a player and as a manager, and I’m confident he will bring that mentality here."

Duff’s transition to coaching followed an impressive playing career that saw him in action across the top eight divisions of English football.

Notably, he achieved three separate promotions to the Premier League with Burnley and led Cheltenham to League Two championship glory as a manager.

Barnsley also commented on Duff's departure, with CEO Khaled El-Ahmad expressing disappointment but acknowledging the coach's right to seek out new challenges.

El-Ahmad confirmed, “As a Club, we are prepared for eventualities like these and are constantly reviewing the available opportunities when looking to make an appointment in this position."

Expressing gratitude for his tenure at Barnsley, Duff commented, “I’d like to start by thanking everyone from the players to Neerav, Julie Anne, Jean and Khaled for their immense support during my time at the club."

He elaborated that his decision to join Swansea City was driven by ambition and not by money, viewing it as "the next natural step in my career."

Swansea City will provide further updates regarding Duff's coaching staff in due course.