Burnley have dismissed manager Nicky Hayen after only 14 games of the 2026-27 season, announcing the decision hours after a 4-1 defeat at Lincoln City. The club sit 22nd in the Championship with eight points from 12 games, and share the joint-worst defensive record in the division. According to Footballtoday.com.
Hayen sacked after 14 games as Burnley’s defence and results unravel
Saturday’s 4-1 loss at Lincoln City proved the breaking point, with the club confirming Hayen’s exit within hours of the final whistle. The 46-year-old had been appointed in July to succeed Scott Parker, who left at the end of April, days after Burnley’s relegation from the Premier League was confirmed.
Hayen arrived with a Belgian Pro League title won with Club Brugge in 2024, and he was tasked with returning Burnley to the English top flight. His spell lasted 14 games. A promising draw with West Ham United on the opening weekend was followed by defeats against West Bromwich Albion, Norwich City, Bristol City and Swansea City.
Burnley did claim their first win of the season against Watford after the international break. The improvement did not last, however, as they drew with Charlton Athletic and then lost to Wolverhampton Wanderers, before the heavy defeat at Lincoln ended Hayen’s tenure.
The league table shows where the problems lie. Burnley have collected just eight points from 12 games, and they have conceded 25 goals in 12 matches, matching Preston North End for the joint-worst defensive record in the division. The club now faces the task of finding a new manager.
