John Eustace was appointed Derby County head coach on 13th February 2025, taking over a team struggling in the Championship relegation zone. He arrived after Paul Warne's dismissal, with the Rams having endured a difficult run of form. Eustace successfully guided Derby to safety on the final day of the 2024/25 season.
One year on, the club has shown considerable progress. Derby County currently sit eleventh in the Championship table, just two points outside the play-off positions. Eustace was nominated for January 2026 Manager of the Month, after his side secured thirteen points from six games, including a 5-0 away victory against Bristol City.
Despite strong away form, Derby's home record this season has seen only four wins from fifteen matches at Pride Park. Eustace stated he has "loved every minute" of his tenure, acknowledging the team has made "good progress" but is "nowhere near the finished article".