Stockport County has announced the departure of manager Dave Challinor, who played a pivotal role in the club's rise from the National League to the brink of the Championship. Challinor, 50, joined Stockport in November 2021 and quickly transformed the team's fortunes, leading them to a play-off spot and then winning the National League title. He continued to guide the club through League Two and narrowly missed out on Championship promotion after losing in the League One play-off final to Bolton. Despite signing a long-term contract last summer, both parties agreed it was time for a change. Challinor thanked the club's owner and supporters, expressing a desire to spend time with his family and hinting at a future return to Edgeley Park. Throughout his managerial career, he has never finished outside of a play-off position. His exit follows the announcement of four player departures, including that of long-serving goalkeeper Ben Hinchliffe.