The timeline of Graham Alexander's 'incredibly difficult' Preston North End move from Bradford City

Bradford City have revealed the timeline of Graham Alexander’s departure from Valley Parade to become the new manager at Preston North End, while putting on record their gratitude for all he achieved with the club.

Alexander was confirmed as the new Preston manager on September 28, taking the position left vacant by Paul Heckingbottom 15 days earlier and bringing long-term assistant Chris Lucketti with him to Deepdale.

Bradford publicly announced they had given Alexander permission to speak to Preston on September 23 and chief executive officer, Ryan Sparks, has now explained what happened in the days that followed.

“Preston North End made a formal approach to us on Wednesday afternoon and, following discussions, Graham made clear that he wished to explore it. Permission was subsequently granted for talks to take place,” Sparks said.

“Those discussions took place 24 hours later, after which Graham confirmed he wished to accept Preston’s offer. Appropriate terms were then agreed between the clubs to allow the move to proceed.”

It’s reported that Preston have paid £500,000 in compensation for Alexander, who was contracted until 2028 after signing a new deal in 2025., as per The Telegraph & Argus.

Sparks continued: “We knew managing in the Championship was an ambition of Graham’s and, given his long-standing connection with Preston, understood why he wanted to pursue the move.

“Our responsibility throughout was to act in the best interests of Bradford City. Once terms had been agreed on that basis, we felt it was important to respect the wishes of Graham and Chris.”

Graham Alexander on the decision to swap Bradford for Preston

Speaking in a statement shared by Bradford, Alexander explained how tough the decision was for he and Lucketti to leave the club in a heartfelt message.

Alexander said: “This decision has been an incredibly difficult one for both of us. It has not been taken lightly, but as always I would like to focus on the positives of our time at this special football club.

“I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity, respect, trust and love we have received here at Bradford City.

“What you all helped us build and achieve was special, creating moments we will never forget. May 3 2025, and the days which followed were highlights of my career; seeing how you back your team and bring pride to the city is truly special.

“It has been an amazing ride, with moments and memories to fill two careers! My time at Bradford City will always be one I look back on with great affection and pride.”

Bradford thank Alexander for the job he did at Valley Parade

Alexander took charge of the Bantams in November 2023, while they sat 16th in League Two. He went on to guide them to promotion to the third tier and they finished in the Play-offs last season.

Sparks also moved to thank Alexander for the job he did during his time in Yorkshire.

He said: “They leave Bradford City in a much stronger position than the one they inherited, with firmer foundations in place for the club to continue moving forward.

“They should be immensely proud of what they have achieved here.

“We will always be grateful for everything they have given the club, and hope our supporters will join us in wishing them and their families nothing but success for the future.”