In a significant move for the club, MK Dons have appointed Paul Warne as their new head coach, as announced on April 15, 2025. Warne, who previously managed Derby County and Rotherham United, steps in to replace Scott Lindsey, who was dismissed last month after a disappointing run of results. The 51-year-old arrives at a pivotal time for the Dons, who currently sit 19th in League Two with just four games remaining in the season.
Warne is the third head coach for MK Dons this season, following Mike Williamson and Lindsey. His appointment reflects the club’s ambition to turn their fortunes around and avoid relegation, as they are currently nine points above the drop zone. The Dons have had a mixed season, with their last two encounters against Carlisle resulting in a 3-0 victory at home and a 2-2 draw away.
Warne expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Dons, stating, "I’m over the moon to be joining MK Dons at such a pivotal moment in the club’s history. The potential of the team under the ownership of Fahad Al Ghanim and the board is truly limitless, and I’m extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to manage the side over the coming years." His first match in charge will be against Newport County on Good Friday, April 18, 2025.
In terms of staff, Warne will be joined by assistant coach Richie Barker, who returns to the club for a second stint. Barker’s experience alongside Warne is expected to bolster the coaching staff significantly. Warne's appointment was facilitated by MK Dons’ sporting director, Liam Sweeting, who has been pivotal in the club's search for a new manager.
Sweeting remarked on Warne's hiring, saying, "This is, quite simply, a massive appointment for MK Dons. Paul is someone we’ve admired for a long time." The club's chairman, Fahad Al Ghanim, echoed these sentiments, expressing his confidence in Warne’s capabilities as a manager. "Paul Warne is a phenomenal football manager and I’m absolutely delighted he’ll be joining us at MK Dons - he was our number one choice," Al Ghanim stated.
Warne comes with a solid track record, having led teams to four promotions from League One—three with Rotherham and one with Derby County last season. However, his recent tenure at Derby ended in February 2025, which followed a successful campaign that saw them return to the Championship. Despite this setback, Warne remains optimistic about the future at MK Dons.
He added, "This is an amazing project, and we’re so excited to drive it forward. I can’t wait to get on the grass; we have some talented players in the squad who we’re really looking forward to working with." The Dons' squad includes notable players like Joe White, a Cumbrian midfielder on loan from Newcastle United, who will be crucial as the team seeks to improve their standing in the league.
The Dons’ recent struggles have raised questions about the team's direction and stability. With Warne at the helm, there is hope that his experience and leadership will provide the necessary spark to motivate the players and connect with the fans. Al Ghanim expressed his hopes for the future, stating, "It’s my hope we can now enter pre-season full of optimism while looking ahead to an exciting future with Paul at the helm."
As the Dons prepare for their upcoming fixtures, the focus will be on building momentum and securing their place in League Two for the next season. The club aims to foster a positive atmosphere, not only on the pitch but also among the supporters, as they look to re-establish their connection with the community.
In conclusion, Paul Warne’s appointment marks a new chapter for MK Dons, as they strive to navigate the challenges ahead and aim for a brighter future under his guidance. The upcoming games will be crucial in determining the club's fate, and with Warne’s proven track record, fans are hopeful that he can lead them to safety and beyond.
