Michael Jolley issues statement resigning two days in as Bury manager following backlash from fans

Michael Jolley issues a statement, resigning two days in as Bury manager following backlash from fans since his appointment.

He was named in charge of eighth-tier Northern Premier League Division One West side Bury on Friday, but it drew criticism on social media and Bury fans chanted for his removal as he watched the 2-1 win against Mossley in the stands at Gigg Lane on Saturday. Mossley fans also sang derogatory songs about him.

But now in a personal statement, Jolley said the appointment had become a “distraction” and stepped aside to avoid hindering the club’s goal of returning to the EFL, wishing everyone well.

Bury Football Club can confirm that Michael Jolley has today been relieved of his duties as First Team Manager by mutual consent.

— Bury Football Club (@buryfcofficial) December 14, 2025

CLUB STATEMENT:

Bury Football Club can confirm that Michael Jolley has today been relieved of his duties as First Team Manager by mutual consent.

The Board recognises the strength of feeling expressed in recent days by supporters, staff, partners and players, and the very real impact the Board’s decision to appoint Michael has had on individuals connected to the Club.

Assistant manager Tim Lees will continue to manage the team on an interim basis while the Board undertakes a wider review of club operations.

We will also be engaging directly with players, staff and stakeholders to listen, learn and ensure that appropriate support is available.

Our immediate priority is the welfare of our people and the stability of the Club and our community.

We believe this step is necessary to help restore confidence, create space for reflection, and allow Bury FC to move forward in a way that reflects our values and responsibilities.

Bury Football Club remains committed to acting with integrity, transparency and respect. Further updates will be shared when appropriate.

Michael Jolley said: “I do not wish my presence to deter the board from its mission of returning the club to its rightful place in the EFL.

“I would like to wish the board, the players, and the supporters, the very best for the future, and hope the club can continue its journey back to where it belongs.”

Following a period of reflection, I have decided to relinquish the opportunity to become the Manager of Bury FC. Full statement attached. pic.twitter.com/bAHekBfnb5

— Michael Jolley (@michaeljolley07) December 14, 2025

MICHAEL JOLLEY’S STATEMENT:

Dear Bury FC Fans –

After a period of reflection over the weekend, it has become apparent that my appointment at Bury FC has become a distraction for the club and so I have decided to relinquish the opportunity to become first team manager.

In relation to a 2009 incident in which I was involved. I made a statement later that same year, which was then updated in 2010. Since nothing has altered during the interim period, I stand by the words but that statement. As I discovered in 2009, the law, as it is written in this instance, does not mitigate for the law being broken without knowledge, malice, or intent. Additionally, I welcome the fact that every investigation into the incident, whether through the legal process, or the subsequent investigations by the UK government and The Football Association, all established through evidence that I was deceived and at no time did I act maliciously. All three organisations concluded that there was no evidence which should prevent me from continuing my career in football; and that is what I have done, periodically, since that time. I consider safeguarding a critical aspect of coaching and have always delivered safe practice 100% of the time throughout my career.

I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work at 7 fantastic professional clubs since 2009. On joining each of those clubs. I have always pro-actively raised this incident after being offered employment. All those clubs considered the evidence and reached their own judgement based on the facts. Now in 2025, 16 and a half years later, my CRB check has long since shown as clear, but in the interests of transparency and openness, I still ensure that any prospective employers have visibility of the issue if I do receive any offer of employment, and I did so once again in my discussions with Bury FC. If prospective employers wish to view the evidence or character references that were heard in court in 2009, I also ensure these documents are made available to them.

Football being what it is. I have become accustomed to being abused in stadia and online by people unwilling or unable to accept the facts. Since I have a clear conscience regarding the incident, I have always believed that it is right that I stand my ground in the face of the abuse I have received during my football career. However, now with a young family of my own who wish to attend matches and support the club, I naturally place their wellbeing above my own and take a different perspective on this issue. With respect to some of the online abuse that has been written, I am grateful for the legal advice that I have received in respect of the options that are now available to me to restore some balance to the prevailing narrative.

Ultimately, I want what is best for Bury FC. My research in preparing for the role demonstrated to me how special the club is in terms of its link with the community and the passion of its supporters. Having been fortunate enough to manage a wonderful community club like Grimsby Town, the parallels between the two are clear. I thank the board for selecting me as the preferred candidate and for the due diligence that I know they carried out with professionals from within the game and previous clubs prior to my appointment. Having learnt a huge amount after a period coaching in Spain, I have revised and updated my approach to the game and was very excited to bring that game model to Bury, along with the passion, dedication and commitment that I bring to every role. As I stated in my recent interview with BBC Radio Manchester, I believe the club will one day return to the EFL and I genuinely feel I could have helped the club work towards that objective.

In summary. I do not wish my presence to deter the board from its mission of returning the club to its rightful place in the EFL, and on the basis I will stand aside to allow the club to move forward with all stakeholders aligned behind the club’s board. I would like to wish the board, the players, and the supporters, the very best for the future, and hope the club can continue its journey back to where it belongs.

Michael Jolley 14.12.25