There’s no question McInnes was good for Hearts, but the benefit ran both ways.
Scouting through Jamestown helped him assemble a title-challenging squad and, in turn, burnished his reputation.
With him gone, the key question is what comes next for Hearts.
The club and its supporters may feel bruised, yet in a few weeks they’ll be gearing up for Champions League qualifying.
Further changes could follow. Devlin has yet to decide on his future in Edinburgh, and Claudio Braga’s standout season is sure to draw outside interest.
Hearts’ achievements last year drew attention far beyond Scotland, and the allure of Champions League football should attract plenty of candidates for the vacant head coach role.
McGlynn remains well regarded inside the club and was reportedly a strong contender for the job a year ago.
Several new signings will join for pre-season, giving the dressing room a very different look and feel.
Shankland, centre-back Frankie Kent, Baningime, and veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon have all departed, and Devlin could yet leave as well.
All were influential figures, while centre-half Craig Halkett is unlikely to return before Christmas after another long-term injury.
Whoever replaces McInnes faces a sizeable task, with restoring confidence, belief, and leadership in the squad among the immediate priorities.
Last season set a high bar. Whether a new head coach and reshaped squad can match—or even surpass—an exceptional campaign is a demanding challenge.