York City have parted ways with manager Stuart Maynard just three months after he guided the club back into the English Football League for the first time in ten years.
The Minstermen’s board confirmed the decision on Sunday, calling it a tough call driven by a "difference in direction and vision for the football club".
York claimed the National League title in April after a 1-1 draw at Rochdale on 25 April 2026. The result left them 2 points clear of Rochdale on 108 points from 46 games, with a +73 goal difference and 114 goals scored.
What happened at York?
Stuart Maynard arrived in August 2025, replacing Adam Hinshelwood. His side’s late surge included an unbeaten run of five matches-three wins and two draws-capped by a stoppage-time equaliser that sealed the title.
The club’s statement admitted the move might look "strange or difficult to understand" at first. It added: "We recognise that, from the outside, this may look like a strange or difficult decision to understand. But we believe that in the long term, the football club will be in a stronger position because of it."
Why it matters for York
York finished the 2025 National League season top with 108 points, 33 wins, nine draws and four losses. Their recent run reads DWWWW, and they now face the challenge of stepping up to League Two.
The club’s owners insist the decision fits their long-term plan. They point to York’s "track record of improving year on year" as proof the club is moving in the right direction.
What comes next for York?
York open their 2026-27 campaign with a Carabao Cup trip to Crawley Town on Monday, 3 August. Their League Two season starts 12 days later with a home game against Bristol Rovers.
The club thanked Maynard for his efforts while urging supporters to focus on the future. York’s first squad update of the new season is expected shortly.
York’s season kicks off with a 3 August Carabao Cup trip to Crawley Town, followed by a 15 August League Two opener against Bristol Rovers. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in National League, 108 pts, 33W-9D-4L from 46 games, recent form DWWWW.
