Robbie Savage is proving that football management success can come from the most unexpected places.
Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, is fabled as the most prolific pipeline of young players in world football. For aspiring coaches, there isn’t an obvious equivalent.
The City Football Group – the global multi-club operation orbiting around Manchester City – might be the closest thing with Mikel Arteta, Enzo Maresca and Patrick Vieira passing through its doors in recent years. But what if there’s a new breeding ground for the next wave of coaches?
What if La Masia for the touchline tacticos exists in plain sight: has the TV studio become the finishing school for contemporary football management?
Savage, co-host of BBC Sport’s 606 phone-in, began his belated management career in 2023 after more than a decade as British football media’s chief provocateur. That’s a role he still fulfils – though nowadays, he juggles broadcasting duties with managing National League promotion hopefuls Forest Green Rovers.
Savage has transformed Forest Green Rovers into genuine promotion contenders. His side currently sit second in the National League, having lost just once all season — a remarkable turnaround after last year’s play-off heartbreak.
Savage known as one of British football’s most outspoken voices, has channelled his trademark energy and charisma into a new era of leadership at the club.
“Robbie is very, very impressive,” Ash Loveridge, editor of the Stroud Times, told BBC Sport’s Extra George Mills. “He plays absolutely full throttle — there’s no handbrake. In one match against Rochdale, which they lost he was chasing a victory and practically had five players up front in the dying embers. He wants his teams to play fearless football.”
Savage’s passion has also reignited a connection between the club and its supporters. “Since he’s come to the club, fan engagement is up, crowds are up, social media figures are up,” Loveridge adds. “After games, he’s gone into the crowd singing with supporters — and he does it without ego. It’s just him. He’s kind, approachable, and he makes time for everyone.”
Loveridge also commented on Savage’s potential at the highest level: “It’s interesting, Robbie has been quoted saying he doesn’t think he’ll manager in the Premier League. But I feel he’s got every chance. The way he engages with people, if you’re a chairman or an owner, I think you’d want him as your manager. He’s very passionate on the sidelines but players don’t seem scared or frightened or inhibited with him.”
Forest Green underwent a major squad rebuild over the summer, with 18 new new players arriving under Savage and sporting director Mark Bowen. Despite that upheaval, the team has found consistency and belief.
“Most managers come in when a club is struggling,” Loveridge notes. “Robbie took over a side that had finished third and still decided to make big changes. It looked risky, but it’s worked — the energy and confidence in the squad are obvious.”
Savage, who continues to co-host BBC Radio 5 Live’s 606 programme, believes his years in broadcasting have shaped his approach to management.
“Working in the media taught me to communicate clearly, to stay calm under pressure, and to see the game differently,” he said. “You analyse matches for years, speak to managers every week — it’s an education in itself. But nothing compares to the feeling of leading a team out on a Saturday.”
Club chairman Dale Vince praised Savage’s impact both on and off the pitch: “Robbie has brought personality, professionalism, and a real sense of connection to the community. His enthusiasm is infectious, and the players have bought into his way of working completely.”
As Rovers continue their promotion push, Savage’s success is redefining the pathway from pundit to professional manager — proving that the skills honed under studio lights can shine just as brightly under the floodlights.
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