Jermain Defoe steps down as manager of his first club after 116 days of an ‘eye-opening experience’
Former Tottenham, Sunderland, and England striker Jermain Defoe has stepped down as manager of National League club Woking after just 116 days, calling the experience an “eye-opener.”
The 43-year-old took on his first managerial role in March, with six games left in the National League season. Woking said they chose Defoe after a “careful recruitment process” because his values, leadership, and football style matched the club’s long-term goals.
During his time, Defoe led Woking to two wins, three draws, and one loss, finishing 10th in the fifth tier of English football. Since the club wasn’t able to reach the play-offs when he arrived, the focus quickly shifted to preparing for the next season.
He managed Woking’s first three pre-season games and helped sign seven new players for the 2026/27 season. However, just two weeks before the new National League season began, Woking announced they had “mutually agreed” to part ways with Defoe.
The club thanked him for his work and wished him well, saying they remain focused on achieving their goals.
Defoe later shared a message on social media, saying the situation made it impossible for him to continue. He thanked the club’s owner, the fans, and the players, saying he was proud of what they had built together and disappointed to leave so soon.
He described his time at Woking as a valuable learning experience that will help him grow for future opportunities.
Defoe was set to be one of five former Premier League players managing in the National League this season, alongside Rob Elliot, Lee Clark, Robbie Savage, and Kieron Dyer. Another manager, Gary Waddock, who led Wealdstone, also has a strong football background with experience playing in the FA Cup final and for the Republic of Ireland.