Frank Lampard’s managerial journey has spanned several major English clubs, beginning with Derby County and extending to Chelsea (twice), Everton, and, most recently, Coventry City.

Though widely celebrated as one of Chelsea’s greatest-ever players, Lampard has spent his post-playing career attempting to carve out a managerial identity across different levels of English football.

His coaching career officially began in 2018 with Derby County, where he impressed enough to earn a swift return to Chelsea this time not as a player, but as head coach.

He later battled relegation pressures at Everton before being recalled by Chelsea in 2023 as interim manager during a turbulent period. In late 2024, Lampard embarked on a new challenge as the manager of Coventry City, signaling the next chapter of his coaching evolution.

Below is a complete review of Lampard’s coaching journey, followed by a deeper look into his life as a player and manager.

Overview Of Frank Lampard’s Managerial Career

Early Life & Rise As A Premier League Midfielder

Before stepping into management, Lampard established himself as one of England’s finest midfielders.

Born on June 20, 1978, in Romford, London, he joined the West Ham United academy in 1994 under the guidance of his father, who served as assistant coach.

After a short loan stint at Swansea City, Lampard made his West Ham first-team debut in 1996.

Though early injuries challenged his progress, he soon became a key figure, scoring his first goals for the club during the 1997–1998 campaign.

By the 1998–1999 season, Lampard was an ever-present force in West Ham’s midfield, helping them achieve a fifth-place Premier League finish.

Despite signing a long-term contract, he eventually chose to leave the club, citing the unfair treatment of his father and the pressure of being judged as “Frank Lampard’s son.”

Chelsea: Lampard’s Legendary Playing Years

Lampard joined Chelsea in June 2001 for £11 million—and the rest became Premier League history.

Over 13 years, he transformed from a promising box-to-box midfielder into Chelsea’s all-time leading goalscorer, netting 211 goals in all competitions.

He enjoyed tremendous success under José Mourinho, winning back-to-back Premier League titles (2005, 2006) and earning the Football Writers’ Footballer of the Year award in 2005. His durability was unmatched, setting a league record of 164 consecutive appearances.

Among his most iconic moments were:

• Assisting the winning goal in the 2012 FA Cup final

• Captaining Chelsea to their first-ever Champions League triumph in 2012

• Lifting the Europa League title in 2013

• Winning three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and multiple domestic trophies

Lampard left Chelsea in 2014, spending brief periods at Manchester City and New York City FC before retiring in 2016.

Lampard’s Trophies As A Chelsea Player

Lampard’s First Steps In Management: Derby County

Lampard’s coaching career began when Derby County appointed him manager on May 31, 2018.

Despite having no prior managerial experience, he led the Rams to the Championship play-off final, where they narrowly lost to Aston Villa.

His impressive first season immediately put him on Chelsea’s radar following Maurizio Sarri’s departure in 2019.

Lampard’s First Chelsea Reign

Appointed on July 4, 2019, Lampard became Chelsea’s first English manager since Glenn Hoddle in 1996.

His early months were challenging, starting with a 4–0 loss to Manchester United and a penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup.

However, he soon stabilized the team and won Premier League Manager of the Month in October.

Under his leadership, Chelsea finished fourth in his debut season and reached the FA Cup final. But a poor run of results during the 2020–2021 campaign saw him dismissed on January 25, 2021.

Everton: A Battle For Survival

Lampard took over a struggling Everton in January 2022. He managed to keep the club in the Premier League during his first season, delivering passionate team talks and key tactical adjustments.

However, the following campaign proved more difficult, with Everton slipping into another relegation fight. After winning only one of 11 matches, Lampard was dismissed in January 2023.

A Short Return: Chelsea Caretaker Manager

In April 2023, Chelsea turned to Lampard again, this time as caretaker manager following Graham Potter’s sacking.

With 11 matches remaining, Lampard oversaw just one win, resulting in Chelsea’s lowest points tally and poorest league finish since 1996. His 9% win rate became the lowest of any Chelsea manager with at least three games in charge.

A New Chapter: Coventry City

Lampard returned to management in November 2024 with Coventry City, aiming to rebuild his reputation and demonstrate long-term coaching growth.

His appointment marked the beginning of what many hope will be a more stable and successful managerial chapter.

FAQ

How Successful Was Frank Lampard At Derby County?

Lampard led Derby County to the Championship play-off final in 2019, narrowly missing Premier League promotion after losing to Aston Villa. His debut season was widely regarded as promising.

What Did Frank Lampard Achieve During His First Spell At Chelsea?

In his first season (2019–2020), Lampard guided Chelsea to a top-four Premier League finish and a place in the FA Cup final, despite a transfer ban and heavy reliance on academy players.

Why Was Frank Lampard Sacked By Chelsea?

Lampard was dismissed in January 2021 after a poor run of results left Chelsea ninth in the Premier League, prompting the club to make a managerial change.

How Did Frank Lampard Perform At Everton?

Lampard took over Everton in January 2022 and helped the team avoid relegation that season. However, a difficult run of form in the following campaign led to his dismissal in January 2023.

When Did Lampard Return To Chelsea As Caretaker Manager?

He returned as caretaker manager in April 2023, overseeing the final 11 games of the season. Chelsea won just one match during this spell, finishing in the bottom half of the table.

What Is Frank Lampard’s Current Coaching Job?

As of November 2024, Frank Lampard is the manager of Coventry City, marking the latest chapter in his coaching career.

Is Frank Lampard Considered A Successful Manager?

Opinions vary. While Lampard has shown tactical promise and strength in developing young players, his managerial results have been inconsistent, especially in his second spell at Chelsea and during the final months at Everton.

What Is Frank Lampard’s Managerial Style?

Lampard prefers an attacking, possession-based approach, often built around high-pressing structures and the development of young talent—reflecting his own dynamic playing career.