Next Rotherham Manager: Mat Sadler turns job down

We take a look at the candidates to be the next manager of Rotherham United after Mat Sadler turned down the opportunity to join the club.

Former Walsall boss Sadler held extensive talks with the club's hierarchy but he has reportedly rejected the chance to become the new Rotherham manager according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Millers are preparing for life in League Two following their relgation from the third-tier last season.

Here are our top five contenders to be the next Rotherham manager.

Next Rotherham United Manager Contenders

Alan Sheehan

Alan Sheehan has been out of work since being sacked by Swansea City in February 2025.

He enjoyed a strong spell as a caretaker manager but he failed to live up to expectations after being handed the reins on a full-time basis.

A drop down to League Two could provide him with the perfect platform to prove his coaching credentials.

Dean Holden

Hull City assistant manager Dean Holden has developed a strong coaching reputation in the EFL.

The Tigers secured promotion to the Premier League in his first season on the coaching staff.

The lure of being the main man in the dugout again after previous spells at Bristol City and Charlton Athletic could just tempt Holden away.

Darren Moore

Darren Moore has been out of work following his dismissal at League One strugglers Port Vale in December.

The 52-year-old has a wealth of experience having also managed West Bromwich Albion, Doncaster Rovers, Sheffield Wednesday and Huddersfield Town in his career.

Moore won promotion from League Two in 2024/25 but he spent much of the 2025/26 campaign at the bottom of the table with the Valiants.

Ryan Lowe

It was a disappointing end at Wigan Athletic for Ryan Lowe and he will feel that he has a point to prove.

The former Plymouth Argyle and Preston North End manager has been out of work since February, but Rotherham could provide him with an opportunity to return to the dugout.

Lowe has a League One promotion on his CV and his next move needs to be the right one.

Luke Garrard

An agonising play-off final defeat to Rochdale denied Boreham Wood and manager Luke Garrard a place in the football league for next season.

Boreham Wood had been two-nil up before being pegged back and eventually beaten on penalties.

Garrard has been at the club for over 10 years and he may feel that the time is right to pursue a position at a higher level.