Burnley sack Hayen after 14 games following Lincoln City defeat

Burnley have dismissed head coach Nicky Hayen following a disastrous start to their Championship campaign, BBC Sport reports. The Belgian manager lasted just 14 games in charge, with his final match a 4-1 away defeat to Lincoln City on Saturday. Hayen's sacking makes him the second Championship manager to lose his job this season, following Preston North End's Paul Heckingbottom.

Hayen was appointed on 10 July to replace Scott Parker, who departed after Burnley's Premier League relegation was confirmed in April. The club announced his departure through a brief two-sentence statement issued within two hours of the Lincoln loss. Burnley currently occupy 22nd place in the Championship table with eight points from twelve matches, sitting in the relegation zone.

The Clarets' season has deteriorated sharply despite an encouraging opening draw against West Ham. They have won only one league game this term and remain without a home victory in the league since defeating Leeds United over a year ago when in the Premier League. Lincoln City's comeback from 1-0 down exemplified Burnley's defensive fragility, with the club having conceded 25 goals across their recent run.

Burnley's struggles represent a stark contrast to expectations following their previous two Championship promotions in 2023 and 2025. Owner Alan Pace had recruited Hayen after his Belgian title success with Club Brugge, tasking him with leading another promotion push. The club will now begin searching for a replacement manager to attempt to reverse their fortunes during the remainder of the season.