Former Derby County manager Billy Davies is signaling his readiness to return to football management after a decade-long hiatus, expressing openness to opportunities across all locations. Davies, whose last role was a dramatic tenure at Nottingham Forest ending in 2014, brings an impressive track record that includes guiding Preston North End to a Championship play-off final and securing Derby County’s promotion to the Premier League.
During his time away from the dugout, Davies hasn’t been idle. He’s taken a methodical approach to staying current with modern football, conducting extensive visits to European clubs and engaging with various football professionals from managers to executives. His immediate plans include a visit to Austrian clubs as he continues this educational journey.
The Scottish manager acknowledges there have been some near-misses regarding potential returns: “I’ve had some conversations that maybe just haven’t come to fruition,” he notes, but maintains an enthusiastic outlook toward future opportunities. Rather than dwelling on past experiences, including his eventful spell at Forest, Davies is focused on creating “new memories” in the game.
His approach to management has evolved to embrace a more comprehensive view of the role. Beyond tactical considerations, he’s invested time in mentoring young professionals and deepening his understanding of football’s regulatory landscape. Working alongside Superior Sports Management and Lee Doyle, Davies appears to have developed a more holistic perspective on modern football management, suggesting he’s ready to adapt to the game’s current demands.