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Dougie Samuel departs Spartans after misconduct investigation

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 10:06 AM

Last updated Sep 20, 2026

Dougie Samuel departs Spartans after misconduct investigation

Summary

Dougie Samuel has left his position as manager of Spartans after 14 years in charge, following allegations of misconduct. The club announced his exit after an independent investigation, which began with Samuel taking an extended leave earlier in September. Sporting director Mixu Paatelainen is currently assisting the staff during this transition. Samuel had managed the club since 2012, guiding them from the Lowland League to the Scottish Professional Football League. Paul Thomson will remain as the interim head coach while Spartans are currently third in League 2 after eight matches this season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Dougie Samuel left Spartans after 14 years as manager.
•Independent investigation prompted his departure.
•Mixu Paatelainen is assisting the remaining staff.
•Paul Thomson serves as interim head coach.
•Spartans rank third in League 2 after eight matches.

Latest Updates

10:06 AMYahoo Sports — Samuel's 14-year Spartans tenure ends after misconduct probe

What they're saying

"
Dougie Samuel, the longest serving manager in Scottish senior football, has left his post as Spartans manager after 14 years following "allegations of misconduct". Earlier in September, it was announced that the 59-year-old would be taking a period of "extended leave" from the League 2 club, with sporting director Mixu Paatelainen assisting the remaining staff in his absence. Samuel had been in charge of the Scottish League 2 club since 2012, leading them out of the Lowland League and into the SPFL three years ago.
— Yahoo Sports

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