Savage Confesses ‘Fear of Failure’ Sparked Shock Macclesfield Exit After Historic Promotion

Robbie Savage, the former Wales international who led Macclesfield FC to a triumphant promotion, has revealed that a profound “fear of failure” and overwhelming stress were key factors in his unexpected departure from the club he helped establish. His move to Forest Green Rovers, announced just five weeks before the new season, brought an end to a four-year journey with Macclesfield.

Millenium TV has learned that Savage achieved all his managerial objectives, guiding Macclesfield to promotion to the National League North with six games remaining in the 2024-25 season. They were the first team in the top seven tiers of English football to secure promotion and the first since 2017 to surpass 100 points in the Northern Premier League Premier Division.

The genesis of Macclesfield FC began in September 2020 after Macclesfield Town was dissolved. Local businessman Robert Smethurst acquired the assets, bringing in his long-time friend Savage as director of football. Together, they resurrected the club from scratch, navigating challenges such as a dilapidated stadium and no league affiliation. They swiftly built a squad that earned back-to-back promotions before a play-off final defeat in 2024 prompted Smethurst to ask Savage to step into the managerial role.

Savage, who initially never envisioned a career in management, took the reins, stating, “I never, ever, ever wanted to be a manager, until the point we lost the play-off final. This season I can’t fail.” Under his leadership, Macclesfield embarked on an impressive run, going unbeaten for their first 17 games and losing only three matches en route to securing promotion to the sixth tier. Star striker Danny Elliott noted Savage’s genuine care, while forward D’Mani Mellor added that “Robbie understands us.” Smethurst praised Savage, calling him “an unbelievable manager.”

Despite the success, an offer from Forest Green proved irresistible. Savage, who also saw his assistant John McMahon and three players follow him to Gloucestershire, explained his decision. “I’ve always been honest and transparent with Rob,” Savage stated, recounting a conversation where Smethurst gave his blessing. However, Smethurst openly conveyed his hurt and surprise at the speed of the exit, comparing it to “losing my left arm.” He expressed the collective sentiment that Savage would stay, aiming to guide the club back to League Two.

During a reunion, Smethurst conveyed the shock felt by the club and fans: “It happened so quick, it was like the heart had been ripped out of the middle.” Savage admitted the backlash was greater than anticipated, stating, “I feared failure for the first time in my life. The stress was too big, I felt so much responsibility and it took over my life.” He indicated his new role allows him to solely focus on football management.

Beyond the pitch, the club’s revival had a profound impact on both men. Smethurst revealed that Macclesfield FC “saved my life” from a battle with addiction, crediting the club for providing direction and purpose, and expressing immense gratitude for Savage’s unwavering support. Savage himself acknowledged the club helped him mentally after his playing career. The pair established a strong bond, describing their friendship as “inseparable, like brothers.”

Millenium TV confirms that at the time of this report, Forest Green sits fourth in the National League, while Macclesfield, under new manager John Rooney, is 14th in National League North but has games in hand and has progressed in the FA Cup.

Savage also shed light on the abuse he frequently endured as a high-profile figure in non-league football, describing it as “hostile” due to proximity to fans and the presence of alcohol. Despite these challenges, he cherishes his time at Macclesfield, recognizing its profound personal significance for both him and Smethurst.