Steve Cooper has become one of the most talked-about managers in English football. Born in Pontypridd, Wales, in 1979, he started his football journey as a defender in the Welsh leagues. He played for clubs like Wrexham, Rhyl, and Bangor City before turning his focus to coaching at a young age.
Cooper began his coaching career at Wrexham’s academy and quickly earned his UEFA Pro Licence at the age of 27. His early promise led him to Liverpool, where he managed the academy and helped develop future stars, including Raheem Sterling and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Achievements with England and Club Success
Steve Cooper’s reputation soared when he joined the England youth setup. He managed the under-16s and then the under-17s, leading the latter to victory at the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. His coaching style focused on player development and tactical discipline, earning him respect across the football community.
Cooper’s club management career began with Swansea City in 2019. He guided the team to the Championship play-offs in both seasons with the club. His next challenge came at Nottingham Forest, where he took over a struggling side and led them to promotion to the Premier League in 2022. This achievement ended Forest’s 23-year absence from the top flight.
The Leicester City Chapter
In June 2024, Steve Cooper became the manager of newly promoted Premier League side Leicester City. The club hoped his tactical acumen and experience would secure their status in the top division. However, the results did not go as planned. Leicester City struggled, winning only two of their first 12 matches and suffering a five-game winless run. The club parted ways with Cooper in November 2024, with Leicester sitting 16th in the league.
Despite this setback, Cooper’s reputation remained strong. His ability to transform struggling teams and develop young talent kept him in demand among clubs seeking a fresh start.
Middlesbrough’s Search for a New Manager
After Michael Carrick departed from Middlesbrough, the club began searching for a new head coach. Steve Cooper quickly emerged as a leading candidate for the role. Middlesbrough has finalised its shortlist of potential managers, with Cooper considered a strong contender due to his proven track record in the Championship and the Premier League.
Cooper’s experience with Swansea and Nottingham Forest, where he achieved play-off finishes and promotion, made him an attractive option for Middlesbrough. The club values his tactical flexibility and his ability to build cohesive teams capable of challenging for promotion.
Steve Cooper’s Coaching Style and Philosophy
Steve Cooper’s coaching style emphasizes possession, organization, and tactical discipline. He prefers his teams to control matches by dominating possession and playing with structure. Cooper often uses a 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing for both defensive stability and attacking flexibility.
He encourages bravery on the ball and quick transitions, demanding his players regain possession through composure and aggression. Cooper’s coaching influences include José Segura, with whom he worked at Liverpool’s academy. His approach has been credited with developing young players and fostering a strong team mentality.
Why Clubs Want Steve Cooper
Steve Cooper’s success with youth teams and underdog clubs has made him a sought-after manager. He has shown the ability to revive teams in difficult situations and guide them to success. His work with England’s youth teams and his promotion of Nottingham Forest to the Premier League highlight his expertise in both player development and tactical management.
Clubs like Middlesbrough see Cooper as a manager who can build long-term success. His focus on youth, tactical discipline, and team cohesion aligns with the ambitions of clubs aiming for promotion or stability in the top divisions.
The Future for Steve Cooper
Steve Cooper remains a prominent figure in English football management. His journey from the Welsh leagues to leading teams in the Premier League and Championship demonstrates his resilience and adaptability. As Middlesbrough and other clubs consider their next managerial appointments, Cooper’s name will continue to feature prominently in discussions about the future of ambitious football clubs.