Stalybridge Celtic part ways with Jon Macken

Stalybridge Celtic have parted ways with manager Jon Macken.

After almost two years at the helm, the 49-year-old has been relieved of his duties following a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign. 

Macken led Celtic to the NPL West play-off final last May after a stellar league season, but his side have struggled for consistency ever since. 

Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at league leaders Bootle left the club reeling in 17th, having picked up just three wins from their opening 11 league matches. 

The former Manchester City forward took over at Bower Fold in October 2024, recording back-to-back sixth placed finishes and guiding the Celts to the Cheshire Senior Cup final. 

Following his departure, club chairman Nigel Jones commented: 

“This has naturally been a difficult decision. Jon and his management team are fantastic people who have contributed so much to the Club since taking charge and we hoped we’d be able build on the significant progress we made as a team under Jon’s leadership. 

“However, it’s just not panned out the way both Jon and I expected, and we believe a change is necessary to give the Club the best possible opportunity to achieve our ambitions. 

“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Jon for his hard work, commitment and professionalism during his time at Stalybridge Celtic. Jon’s professionalism from beginning to end has been first-rate and I personally would like to wish him and his team all the best for the future. 

“A big thank you to the Celtic supporters for their incredible support during what’s been a more testing than expected season thus far.” 

Celtic’s search for a new first team manager remains ongoing, with their next league meeting taking place this Saturday, as Kidsgrove Athletic visit Bower Fold.