When most clubs lose their manager to a bigger club they may be upset with how the departure unfolded, but they keep those feelings hidden as they politely wish their coach well in public.
Forest Green Rovers is not one of those clubs.
Rob Edwards led Forest Green to a League Two championship this season, helping the team get promoted to League One. As an up-and-coming young coach who experienced major success in his first senior managerial job, Edwards naturally attracted interest from bigger clubs.
Rumors began picking up recently that Watford, which was just relegated from the Premier League, had identified Edwards as the man to help bring the club back up to the big time next season.
On Wednesday, Forest Green confirmed Edwards was leaving, but the club was unable to put on a happy face in public.
Forest Green lashed out at Edwards and Watford, claiming all negotiations went on behind the club’s back and that their behavior “gives football a bad name.”
Forest Green’s statement on Edwards
“FGR confirms the departure of Head Coach Rob Edwards. Rob was a key part of the team that gained promotion to League One this season. We’re disappointed that our support, loyalty and honesty towards Rob has been repaid in this way – with negotiations taking place behind our backs.
“We had no contact from Watford, from whom we might expect less, but in any event this kind of behaviour gives football a bad name.
“We thank Rob for all his work at FGR – forgive him the manner of his departure and wish him well.”
At least they forgave him!