Kris Doolan Opens Up on Partick Thistle Exit: Budget Cuts, Failed Signings, and Fan-Owned Club Struggles

Kris Doolan Breaks Silence on Partick Thistle Departure

Kris Doolan, the former Partick Thistle manager, has publicly addressed the circumstances surrounding his abrupt exit from the Scottish Championship club, citing budget cuts and a failed January transfer window as pivotal factors.

Financial Constraints and Managerial Pressure

Doolan, who took charge in 2023 following Ian McCall’s departure, guided Thistle to the Premiership play-off final in his first season. However, despite maintaining a play-off position this campaign, the 38-year-old was dismissed in February after a four-match winless run.

"Decisions are made behind the scenes for financial reasons or other board-level dynamics," Doolan told BBC Scotland. "If you’re in the play-offs, how many managers lose their jobs? But I understand the financial repercussions if the club slips out."

Missed January Opportunities

A critical issue, according to Doolan, was the club’s inability to reinforce the squad during the winter window. While rivals like Ayr United, Livingston, and Falkirk strengthened, Thistle offloaded key players, including left-back Harry Milne (now at Hearts), without replacements.

"We freed up wages but had no funds to reinvest. Selling Milne—arguably one of the best defenders outside the Premiership—and not replacing him was a mistake."

Behind-the-Scenes Turmoil

Partick Thistle, a fan-owned club, has faced instability in recent years, with reported losses exceeding £355,000. Doolan emphasized the ripple effect of boardroom changes:

"A settled off-field structure translates to stability on the pitch. When power struggles persist, it filters down to the team."

Interim Success and Lingering Questions

Under caretakers Brian Graham and Mark Wilson, Thistle remain fourth, but Doolan insists he could have secured play-offs again:

"I knew how to steer the team through challenges, even with off-field noise. Had we strengthened in January, results would’ve improved."

The Fan-Owned Dilemma

While praising fan ownership ("supporters deserve the biggest say"), Doolan called for clarity in leadership to achieve promotion ambitions. His exit underscores broader tensions in lower-league football between financial prudence and competitive demands.

Key Stats:

• 2 play-off campaigns under Doolan (2023 finalists, 2024 semi-finalists).
• 8 players departed in January 2024 with zero arrivals.
• Pre-tax losses: £355,834 (2023), £131,811 (2022).