Maidstone United manager George Elokobi to leave at the end of the season after three years in charge

George Elokobi is stepping down as Maidstone United manager after three years in charge.

Elokobi will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

He joined the Stones as a player in the summer of 2019, captaining them to National League South title glory three years later.

The former Wolves defender was made caretaker manager after Hakan Hayrettin’s dismissal in January 2023 and went on to secure the job on a permanent basis.

Under Elokobi, Maidstone enjoyed a history-making run to the FA Cup fifth round, including a famous 2-1 victory at Championship club Ipswich.

They also reached the National League South play-off final and semi-finals and are still in contention for a top-seven finish this season.

“Football is about making memories that will last forever,” said Elokobi.

“Together through passion, values and belief, we created some magical moments that will connect us for life.

“My gratitude to our owners (Terry Casey and Oliver Ash), director of football (Bill Williams), the players and management team and all the staff at the football club and mostly to our wonderful supporters and wider community.”

Ash said: “I know I speak for everyone connected with the club when I say we owe George an immense amount of gratitude and respect for the hard work he put in both as a player and as our manager.

“Entrusting George with the manager’s role three years ago is certainly one of the best decisions we have made and, while I have many fond memories from his time in charge, like many Stones supporters I will never forget the emotion of the FA Cup win at Portman Road.”

Casey said: “George has made an immense contribution to Maidstone United. As a player, captain, mentor and manager, he brought experience,