Michael Skubala has left the club to join Bristol City as their new head coach.
Michael leaves the LNER Stadium after two-and-a-half years, in charge of the Imps, having overseen 140 first-team games. The highlight was undoubtedly clinching the Sky Bet League One title in style, with a record unbeaten run of 29 matches on the way to 103 points and promotion to the Championship.
City’s chief executive Liam Scully said: “Michael has made a significant impact during his time at Lincoln City and leaves with our sincere thanks and best wishes.
“From the moment he arrived, he embraced everything about this football club and represented the club with real integrity and professionalism.
“We are proud that Lincoln City continues to be recognised as a stable place where talented people develop and Michael leaves with the gratitude and respect of everyone connected with the club. I’d like to thank him for everything he has contributed and wish him every success in the future.”
Sporting director Jez George said: “I can only reiterate Liam’s words. It has genuinely been an absolute pleasure to work with Michael, to watch him grow and to demonstrate that it is possible to appoint a ‘first time head coach’ with success.
"Michael also dispelled the myth that professional football operates in a way that requires dictatorial leadership. We have ‘won’ by being collaborative, empowering experts to make decisions and by creating an elite environment. Michael has personified that and leaves that as his legacy, as well as our place in the Championship.”
Michael added: “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone connected with Lincoln City for the support I’ve received during my time here.
“I’ve loved being part of this football club. There is a special connection between the team and the fans, and I’ve felt that from day one.
“I’m proud of what we achieved together and being able to lead this club to the Championship for the first time in 65 years was a true honour.
“I am so grateful for the relationships and memories that have been created along the way. Lincoln City and the club’s fans will always be in my heart and mean so much to me, and I wish the club nothing but success in the future. Up the Imps.”
Everyone at Lincoln City thanks Michael for his contribution to the Imps and wishes him and his family all the very best for the future.