Manager to retire after 23-years as Welsh football club announces departure
Llanrhaeadr will seek a new manager this summer. (Pic By Will Cheshire/FAW)
Mike Barton will bring the curtain down on his 23-year Welsh football managerial career at the end of the current season, as he prepares to step down from his role at Llanrhaeadr.
The 52-year-old was appointed manager in 2022 and will depart after nearly four years in charge at Tanllan Recreation Field.
Barton took over following the club’s relegation from the JD Cymru North and guided Llanrhaeadr to a ninth-place finish in his first season. However, the club suffered another setback with relegation in 2024.
Despite that, Barton was trusted to lead a rebuild and delivered. He guided the team to the Central Wales North league title, securing an immediate return, and has since steered them towards stability. Llanrhaeadr currently sit 10th in the Ardal North East and are on course to retain their third-tier status.
Club Statement
A statement from the club read:
“First team manager Mike Barton has informed us of his desire to stand down at the end of the current season.
It will bring to an end a 23-year period of club management. We are extremely grateful for all Mike has done for the club, leaving us in a far better position than when he arrived and with a bright future ahead of us.
We hope that you enjoy your retirement from management and spending more time with the family. Diolch yn fawr iawn.”
Career Background
Before joining Llanrhaeadr, Barton managed Morda United in the Salop Leisure Shropshire League.
As a player, he featured for Newtown and Rhayader Town in the Cymru Premier before transitioning into management across mid-Wales. His managerial career includes spells with Guilsfield, Berriew, Llanidloes Town, and Four Crosses, where he achieved promotion from the fourth tier.
Final Fixtures in Charge
Barton’s remaining games as Llanrhaeadr manager are:
- April 15 – Llanfair United (A)
- April 25 – Builth Wells (H)
- April 27 – Waterloo Rovers (A)
- April 29 – Cefn Albion (A)
- May 2 – Bow Street (A)
- May 16 – Knighton Town (H)
