Mike Fowler, the former manager of Southern League Premier Central side Redditch United, has revealed his eagerness to return to football management following his departure from the club last month. Fowler parted ways with Redditch United a month after signing a new contract and stepping down from his role as academy manager to focus solely on the first team.

Fowler’s exit came just weeks before the start of the new season, despite the team having secured new signings and contract extensions with key players, including leading scorer Alex Cameron and midfielder Liam Loughlan. The club moved swiftly to appoint assistant manager Jimmy Fry as his replacement.

In a statement, Redditch United described Fowler’s departure as a mutual decision reached after discussions between the parties, noting it came "following a successful campaign in his first year at the Valley Stadium." The club indicated that both Fowler and the organization agreed it was the appropriate moment to take separate paths.

Reflecting on the situation, Fowler expressed disappointment but said he was not surprised by the outcome, emphasizing that those close to the matter had anticipated the change. He acknowledged that the timing—just two weeks before the season—and the recent contract renewal caused confusion among observers. Fowler added that the terms of his departure prevent him from disclosing further details.

Fowler is widely recognized for his player development skills, having nurtured several talents during his time overseeing Solihull Moors’ academy, including Kian Ryley, Finn Howell, and Charlie Footes. At Redditch, he continued this approach, highlighting the progress of midfielder Billy Fielding, who has become a regular in the league with around 30 appearances.

Despite his exit, Fowler expressed support for his former team’s prospects this season. He noted that Redditch United finished last season level on points with two playoff contenders, narrowly missing out due to goal difference with a relatively young squad. Fowler indicated confidence in the squad he assembled, having retained key players and addressed areas needing improvement, particularly aiming to increase goal-scoring and defensive stability.

He also suggested that under his management, the team might have had a stronger start to the current campaign and was disappointed with their position going into the Bank Holiday weekend. Fowler concluded by stating his readiness to embrace new opportunities after a brief break from football.