Graham Alexander leaves Bradford City to become Preston North End manager

Bradford City AFC has confirmed that Graham Alexander has left the club to become manager of Preston North End, with assistant manager Chris Lucketti also moving to Deepdale.

Alexander had been in charge at Valley Parade since November 2023, when Bradford City were 16th in Sky Bet League Two.
The Bantams finished one point outside the play-off places during his first season and also reached the semi-finals of the EFL Trophy. In his first full campaign, Alexander guided City to automatic promotion to League One, securing the club’s first promotion at home since 1982.That season also saw Bradford win ten consecutive home league matches, surpassing a run dating back to 1952/53, while the club again reached the semi-finals of the EFL Trophy.

City subsequently finished fourth in their first season back in League One since 2019, before losing to Bolton Wanderers in the play-off semi-finals.

Alexander leaves with Bradford City top of Sky Bet League One after seven matches this season and through to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

During his time in charge, the former Scotland international won 79 of his 158 games, giving him a 50% win rate. According to the club, he also recorded his 50th Bradford City victory after 98 matches, matching a club record dating back to Peter O’Rourke in 1908.

Bradford City chief executive officer Ryan Sparks said:

“On behalf of everyone at Bradford City, we would like to thank Graham and Chris for the enormous contribution they have made to our club over almost three years.

“Together with our wonderful playing squad, they have helped create some of the most incredible moments in our recent history – and memories which we know will stay with our supporters for many years to come. Promotion back to Sky Bet League One, the manner in which it was achieved, cup runs and everything we have experienced since have made this a very special period.

“During their time here, the club has broken a number of significant records and Graham and Chris have played a hugely important part in our progress. We have enjoyed a brilliant relationship with them both and shared some very special moments together.

“Preston North End made a formal approach to us on Wednesday afternoon and, following discussions, Graham made clear that he wished to explore it. Permission was subsequently granted for talks to take place.

“Those discussions took place 24 hours later, after which Graham confirmed he wished to accept Preston’s offer. Appropriate terms were then agreed between the clubs to allow the move to proceed. We knew managing in the Championship was an ambition of Graham’s and, given his long-standing connection with Preston, understood why he wanted to pursue the move.

“Our responsibility throughout was to act in the best interests of Bradford City. Once terms had been agreed on that basis, we felt it was important to respect the wishes of Graham and Chris.

“They leave Bradford City in a much stronger position than the one they inherited, with firmer foundations in place for the club to continue moving forward. They should be immensely proud of what they have achieved here.

“We will always be grateful for everything they have given the club, and hope our supporters will join us in wishing them and their families nothing but success for the future.”

Alexander described his departure as a difficult decision and thanked the club, players, staff and supporters for their backing during his time at Valley Parade.

He said:

“This decision has been an incredibly difficult one for both of us. It has not been taken lightly, but as always I would like to focus on the positives of our time at this special football club.

“I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity, respect, trust and love we have received here at Bradford City.

“What you all helped us build and achieve was special, creating moments we will never forget. May 3 2025, and the days which followed were highlights of my career; seeing how you back your team and bring pride to the city is truly special.

“Football is full of ups and downs, and our time at Valley Parade was no different, but your support during the tough moments was crucial and was never taken for granted.

“I think it is only right to thank the wonderful people at Bradford City, who helped make my time here special.

“To Ryan for his unwavering, consistent and ‘out on a limb’ support for me personally. I would not have been your manager for almost three years without his belief in me through thick and thin. I have learnt a lot from his honesty and advice and will always be in his debt.

“To David for his calmness and empathy for my role, using his experience to bring an understanding ear when it was needed.

“To all the players for their commitment, attitude, togetherness and will to win. It has been unbreakable, and they have been an absolute joy to work with.

“To the staff both at the training ground and Valley Parade for their loyalty, belief, work ethic and all the fun we have had along the way!

“Finally, to the supporters, you will forever be the lifeblood of the club. Thank you for the atmosphere, colour, faith, patience and excitement you bring to any stadium we have played in – especially at Valley Parade. Together, we have created a venue opponents fear visiting. You should be immensely proud of the vital role you have played in doing so.

“It has been an amazing ride, with moments and memories to fill two careers! My time at Bradford City will always be one I look back on with great affection and pride.”

Bradford City said the process of appointing a permanent replacement is already underway.

In the meantime, Mark Trueman and Colin Doyle will take charge of first-team duties, beginning with the away fixture at Reading on the 3rd of October.