TNT Sports pundit, 50, snubs managerial ‘offers from numerous football clubs’ to stay in current role
TNT Sports Pundit Prioritizes Loyalty Over Career Moves
In a football landscape dominated by rapid managerial turnovers and enticing offers, Robbie Savage has bucked the trend by turning down several managerial roles from interested clubs. The 50-year-old TNT Sports pundit and former Welsh international has chosen loyalty and vision over short-term ambition, recommitting to his current role at Macclesfield.
Savage, who also serves as Director of Football at the club, led Macclesfield to a stunning Northern Premier League title victory in March. Their promotion to the National League North was confirmed with six games to spare, a feat that placed Savage in high demand across the lower echelons of English football.
Macclesfield’s Rise Under Savage
Since joining the club’s leadership structure, Savage has been instrumental in Macclesfield’s revival. The club, which was reborn after the original Macclesfield Town was wound up in 2020 due to financial issues, has been on a meteoric rise through the non-league pyramid. With a clear vision and robust investment from owner Robert Smethurst, the Silkmen have become one of the most well-run and ambitious clubs outside the Football League.
Under Savage’s stewardship, Macclesfield has embraced a philosophy that values community engagement, grassroots development, and attacking football. That philosophy has not only brought results on the pitch but has reinvigorated a once-demoralized fanbase.
Offers Came Flooding In
Following their title triumph, speculation swirled that Savage could be poached by clubs seeking a charismatic and visionary leader. Smethurst confirmed those rumors in a recent interview, stating: “Absolutely thrilled to be able to keep hold of Robbie despite offers from numerous clubs. The journey continues.”
While details of the clubs involved remain undisclosed, sources close to the situation suggest that teams in both the National League and League Two had approached Savage. Given his media profile and his successful transformation of Macclesfield, it’s easy to see why he was in such high demand.
An Emotional Tribute Amid Triumph
The club’s title-winning celebrations were tinged with raw emotion as Savage broke down during a press conference, dedicating the win to his late father, Colin. Colin Savage passed away in 2012 after a long battle with dementia.
“Winning the league with six games to go. Not only have we done it, we’ve smashed the winning barrier and I can’t thank my staff enough,” he said, his voice cracking.
“I wish my father was here to see it. It’s seeing people’s families here… my mum couldn’t be here as she was ill. She said, ‘I wish your dad was here to see you.’ I’m quite emotional because the pressure has been extraordinary, to the point my sons were worried about me having a heart attack.”
Family First: A Personal Victory
The pressure of managing a team while also serving in an executive capacity took its toll on Savage, but it also provided moments of immense personal reward.
“I’ve proved people wrong, I’m a fighter and believe in what I do. I just wish my mum and dad were here,” he continued.
“But the nicest thing was my two boys were here. They gave me a big kiss and hug, my wife too. That means so much.”
Savage’s emotional vulnerability revealed the deep personal stakes he has in this project. It’s not just a job—it’s a mission, rooted in family legacy and community pride.
From Pundit to Proven Leader
Best known for his outspoken nature on TNT Sports and other platforms, Savage’s transition from pundit to football executive has not been without its critics. However, his success at Macclesfield silenced many doubters.
“People can say what they want about me, but they can’t take away that my group have won the league on the first attempt,” he said. “If the players don’t realise now what this club is, it’s one of the biggest clubs in non-league.”
New Two-Year Contract
In light of his achievements, Macclesfield wasted no time securing Savage’s future. He has signed a new two-year contract, which will see him continue to lead the club into the National League North campaign.
Smethurst described the re-signing as a huge win for the club’s future: “Robbie’s energy, vision, and commitment are unmatched. We’re building something special here, and he’s at the heart of it.”
The Future of Macclesfield
With promotion secured, the challenge now shifts to competing at a higher level. The National League North is a fiercely competitive division with storied clubs and significant financial resources. However, Macclesfield’s infrastructure, growing fan base, and media presence provide them with a strong foundation.
Savage and Smethurst are also focused on youth development. Their academy continues to scout and nurture young talent, offering a sustainable model that could see Macclesfield ascend further in the football pyramid.
The Value of Stability in Football
In an industry that often favors short-term results over long-term planning, Savage’s decision to stay put sends a powerful message about loyalty, vision, and leadership. By snubbing the lure of quick glory elsewhere, he reinforces the idea that building something meaningful takes time, patience, and passion.
His journey is also a reminder that success in football isn’t only defined by Premier League trophies or European nights. Sometimes, it’s about rebuilding a club, uniting a community, and honoring personal legacy.
The Community Backs Their Man
Fan reaction to Savage’s decision has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media has been flooded with messages of gratitude and admiration, praising his commitment and character.
“He’s one of us,” one fan posted. “He doesn’t just wear the badge, he lives it.”
Season ticket sales for the upcoming campaign have surged, with fans eager to back their team’s next chapter under Savage’s guidance.
Final Thoughts
Robbie Savage’s story at Macclesfield is far from over. What started as a media personality dipping his toe into the football executive world has evolved into a deeply personal mission marked by triumph, adversity, and emotional resonance.
By rejecting multiple job offers and doubling down on his commitment to the club, Savage is not only changing perceptions of himself but redefining what success looks like in modern football.
