43-year-old J. Defoe made his managerial debut in March, with six National League games remaining in the season.
Woking then stated that J. Defoe was appointed after a “thorough selection process” which revealed that his “values, leadership style and football philosophy best aligned with the club’s long-term vision.”
During that time, Woking secured two wins, drew three times, and suffered only one defeat, ultimately finishing 10th in England’s fifth-tier football league.
When J. Defoe arrived, the club had already lost its chances of making the playoffs, so attention quickly shifted to preparing for the new season.
J. Defoe led Woking in their first three pre-season matches and signed seven players before the start of the 2026-27 season.
However, just a few weeks before the first National League match of the season, Woking unexpectedly announced that they had decided to part ways with J. Defoe “by mutual agreement.”
“We would like to formally express our sincere gratitude to Jermain for his contribution during his time at Woking Football Club and wish him all the best for the future,” the club said in a statement.
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J. Defoe himself later issued a statement on his social media accounts, claiming that circumstances “made it impossible” for him to continue leading the London club. However, he did not specify details:
“Following recent discussions, I can confirm that I am leaving my role as Woking manager by mutual agreement. Unfortunately, circumstances ultimately prevented me from continuing in this position. I am incredibly proud of the work I did at the club, and I genuinely believed we were building something special.
I would like to thank Todd Johnson [the principal owner] for the opportunity. I am extremely grateful to the fans and, most importantly, to the players, for whom I am truly sorry. The team is fantastic, and I wish them all the best for the upcoming season.”
He stated that he was “truly disappointed that this journey has ended so quickly,” adding: “My time at Woking has been an eye-opening coaching experience that will undoubtedly make me stronger to take on the next challenge in my career.”
J. Defoe would have been one of five former Premier League players managing teams in the National League this season – Rob Elliot, Lee Clark, Robbie Savage, and Kieron Dyer manage Carlisle, Hartlepool, Forest Green, and Southend, respectively.
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