Morecambe FC has appointed Ashvir Singh Johal as their new first-team manager, creating a landmark moment in British football history. The 30-year-old becomes the first Sikh to take charge of a professional British club, marking a significant milestone for diversity in football management.
The appointment follows Monday’s completion of the Panjab Warriors takeover, which itself made history as the first Sikh-led group to own an English Football League club. Johal replaces Derek Adams, who departed just hours after the new ownership was confirmed.
The gaffer has a clear message for the Shrimps faithful 🤝#UTS 🦐
— Morecambe FC (@MorecambeFC) August 19, 2025
A Decade of Development and Excellence
Johal brings impressive credentials to the Mazuma Mobile Stadium. He spent 10 years at Leicester City, coaching players in the academy setup from U7s all the way through to U18s, during that time Leicester City went through their most successful period as a football club.
The young manager’s first taste of senior football came in 2022 when he joined Wigan Athletic as first-team coach under Kolo Touré. He worked under then-Latics boss Kolo Toure in an appointment that made him the first Sikh-Punjabi coach to take his place on the touchline in Championship history.
Most recently, in June 2025, at 30 years old, he completed his UEFA Pro Licence with the FA, the highest qualification in management and football coaching, making him one of the youngest coaches in Europe to achieve this distinction.
Immediate Challenges and Long-term Vision
Johal faces substantial challenges in his new role. The club currently has only five players under contract following their relegation from League Two last season. Morecambe, who were relegated from Sky Bet League Two last season, have had their first two National League games postponed after being suspended for failing to comply with the league’s rules.
Despite these obstacles, the new manager remains focused and determined. “The immediate priority right now is going to be to identify the players that we need in this building to ensure Morecambe Football Club can perform well in the National League,” Johal explained in his first interview.
The young manager’s vision extends beyond mere survival. “I think the short-term plan this year is to make sure that we retain our place in the National League by playing exciting, energetic football, working hard,” he said. “The long-term aim is to build the processes, the infrastructure.”
Historic Takeover Provides Foundation
The appointment comes just days after the Panjab Warriors consortium completed their acquisition of Morecambe FC. The takeover ended months of financial uncertainty that had threatened the club’s existence. Following months of financial turmoil, the club will be able to play again, once the National League receive the signed Sale and Purchase Agreement.
The new owners have already begun addressing the club’s immediate needs. Outstanding wages, HMRC liabilities, and football creditors have been settled, with the National League lifting the club’s suspension following the takeover approval.
Breaking Barriers in Football Management
Johal’s appointment represents more than just a new manager taking charge. The significance of his position hasn’t been lost on football’s governing bodies and anti-discrimination organisations. Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out applauded Singh Johal’s appointment. It said in a post on X: “History made. Congratulations to Ashvir Singh Johal on becoming the first Sikh manager in professional football. Fully deserved and also a significant milestone for representation in leadership within the game.“
The appointment builds on recent progress in football diversity, following other historic managerial appointments like Thomas Tuchel’s controversial selection as England manager, showing how the game continues to evolve.
Morecambe Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Ashvir Singh Johal as the Club’s new First Team Manager.
The full interview will be available at 09:30 🎥#UTS 🦐
— Morecambe FC (@MorecambeFC) August 19, 2025
Looking Ahead
Morecambe supporters will be hoping Johal’s arrival signals the start of a new era for their club. With the backing of ambitious new owners and a manager determined to build something sustainable, the Shrimps are looking to not just survive in the National League but thrive.
The club’s scheduled opener against Altrincham on 23rd August 2025 will mark the beginning of Johal’s managerial journey, provided squad-building efforts prove successful. For a club that spent 18 years in the Football League before last season’s relegation, the appointment represents hope for a return to former glories.
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Johal’s historic appointment demonstrates football’s continuing commitment to diversity and inclusion, while his credentials suggest Morecambe have appointed a manager capable of delivering on both sporting and social fronts.
