Burnley turn to former CSKA Moscow manager Fabio Celestini as new head coach
Politics · 28 October 2026

Burnley Football Club has appointed Fabio Celestini as their new head coach, just four days after parting ways with Nicky Hayen. The club, currently positioned 22nd in the Championship, has struggled significantly this season, managing only one victory in their first 12 league matches since their relegation from the Premier League.
Celestini, a 50-year-old Swiss national, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously enjoyed a successful tenure at FC Basel and most recently managing CSKA Moscow. The club's announcement highlighted his ability to adapt to various football environments and his proven track record of winning, which they hope will help turn around their current fortunes.
The significance of this appointment lies in Burnley's urgent need for a turnaround in form. With the team languishing at the bottom of the Championship table, Celestini's leadership will be crucial in instilling confidence and improving performance as they aim to avoid further relegation and stabilize their position in the league.
Details regarding the length of Celestini’s contract have not been disclosed, leaving some uncertainty about the club's long-term plans. Additionally, it remains to be seen how quickly he can implement his strategies and whether he can inspire the squad to achieve better results in the coming weeks.