He subsequently became director of football at Loughborough University, renowned for sporting excellence, before being headhunted by the FA, where he became head coach of England national futsal team.[1] Between 2017 and 2020, he guided them to their highest world ranking in two decades and played a key role in the development of future Premier League player and Wolves captain Max Kilman.[2][3][4] Skubala then progressed to work with the England U18's, whilst also working at UEFA as a football advisor.
In February 2023, Skubala was appointed interim head coach of English Premier League side Leeds United, alongside coaches Paco Gallardo and Chris Armas, after the sacking of head coach Jesse Marsch.[6][7][8] After Leeds drew their first game away under Skubala 2–2 at Manchester United, it was announced that he would remain in charge for a second match four days later: the home tie against Manchester United.[9] The club also announced that Skubala would remain in the role while the search for a permanent manager continued,[10] and Skubala said he did not see the temporary role as an 'opportunity' for him.[11] After the appointment of Javi Gracia as head coach, Skubala was promoted to first-team coach at Leeds[12]
Lincoln City
On 13 November 2023, he was appointed the head coach of League One club Lincoln City.[13] His first game ended in a 1–0 defeat to Stevenage.[14] His first Lincoln City win came the next game, beating Leyton Orient 1–0.[15] He was nominated for the February 2024 Manager of the Month, picking up 16 points from 6 unbeaten games.[16] His unbeaten run would continue into March, taking 13 points from the next 5 games, including a 5–1, 6–0 and 5–0 win, getting him another manager of the month nomination.[17] Lincoln City missed out on a play-off place following a 2–0 defeat to League One champions Portsmouth on the final day of the season.[18]
On the eve of the 2024–25 season, Skubala signed a contract extension until the end of the 2027–28 season.[19] Three wins from four and the most goals in League One scored, saw him nominated for August manager of the month.[20]
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