'Unbelievable' Bartley departure leaves 'sour taste' for fans
Livingston fan views on Marvin Bartley departure
www.bbc.comMarvin Bartley has resigned as Livingston manager in May 2026, with Scott Arfield stepping in as interim boss until the end of the season. The resignation followed Livingston’s relegation from the Premiership, and Bartley indicated the decision came after being told he would need to reapply for his job under a new process; both he and Neil Hastings stepped away with immediate effect. [Source: BBC coverage and club/press releases reported in May 2026]
Key details you might find useful:
- Timeline:
- February 2026: Bartley becomes Livingston manager, replacing David Martindale who moved to sporting director.
- April–May 2026: Clubs and media discuss Bartley’s future as contracts and stability concerns are raised.
- May 6–7, 2026: Bartley and Hastings resign; Scott Arfield named interim manager.
- Context:
- Livingston were relegated from the Scottish Premiership, prompting leadership changes.
- Bartley stated the decision was made with regret and that he felt there was a misalignment between the agreed role and the new process introduced by the club.
Would you like a concise timeline PDF or a one-page briefing with direct quotes from the club statements and Bartley’s social posts? I can assemble a snapshot with dates, roles, and outcomes.
Citations:
- Bartley resignation and interim replacement details: BBC and club reports from early May 2026.[4][5][6]
- Context on tenure and relegation: BBC coverage of ongoing discussions and reactions.[9][4]