Bath Rugby have confirmed the departure of Martin Gleeson, their backs and attack coach, as head of rugby Johann van Graan seeks to reinvigorate the team’s attacking prowess and reclaim their place at the pinnacle of English rugby.
This season has been one of near successes for Bath, with the club reaching the semi-finals of the Gallagher Premiership, Investec Champions Cup, and Premiership Rugby Cup. However, they fell short each time, unable to replicate the previous season’s treble victory—which, though prestigious, was achieved in the EPCR Challenge Cup rather than in Europe’s premier competition.
Gleeson joined Bath in October 2025 on a one-year contract, stepping in after the departure of Lee Blackett, who was recruited by England’s coaching setup following a successful summer tour. Despite finishing the regular season as the second-highest try scorers behind Northampton Saints, Bath’s attacking strategy relied heavily on forward dominance, with less emphasis on backline creativity—a key focus van Graan now aims to address. Weather conditions over the winter months also limited the team’s attacking ambitions, according to van Graan.
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Martin Gleeson’s rugby career started in league, where he represented England, Great Britain, and clubs including Wigan Warriors, Huddersfield Giants, St Helens, and Salford City Reds. Transitioning to union, he brought his expertise to coaching roles at Warrington Wolves, Wasps, and England Rugby.
Reflecting on his time at Bath, Gleeson said: “I’d like to thank Johann for the opportunity this season to come to Bath and work with some amazing staff and talented players. It’s been a great season, and I wish the club all the success in the future.”
Van Graan added: “We want to thank Martin for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Bath are poised to announce Munster coach Mike Prendergast as Gleeson’s successor. Additionally, the possible involvement of former Bath and England player Mike Catt—recently released from the NSW Waratahs—could factor into the club’s plans moving forward.