Meet Ashvir Singh Johal, First British Sikh Manager In English Football

Last Updated:August 19, 2025, 19:35 IST

Ashvir Singh Johal, 30, becomes the first British Sikh manager of Morecambe FC, aiming for success in the National League after Panjab Warriors' takeover.

Ashvir Singh Johal is the new Morecambe FC boss (X)

Leicester-born Ashvir Singh Johal made history on Tuesday by becoming the first British Sikh manager of a professional English football club when he took charge of Morecambe FC in Lancashire, north-west England.

Johal, 30, has dedicated ten years to Leicester City football club, coaching young players in the academy.

His new role follows the completion of his Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Pro Licence with the Football Association (FA) in June, making him one of the youngest recipients of the highest qualification in management and football coaching.

“I think the fans can expect someone who is extremely hard-working and really proud to represent them and their town, make sure they have got a team that really represents them on the pitch," said Johal, in his first interview conducted by the club following his appointment.

“Every single day that I am here, that’s my responsibility and it’s something I’ll make sure I achieve and make sure we don’t leave a day when we are not working towards that objective," he said.

“I think the immediate priority is going to be to identify the players that we need in this building to make sure Morecambe Football Club this season can perform well in the National League. For me, that’s the priority," he said.

Who Is Ashvir Singh Johal?

Johal’s appointment marks a new era for the Shrimps, as Morecambe FC is known, ushering in a fresh journey under new ownership.

Morecambe FC praised Johal’s “excellent reputation" as a forward-thinking coach and leader, bringing extensive experience in player development, tactical innovation, and building high-performance cultures.

“His appointment marks an exciting new era for the Shrimps as the Club continues its journey under fresh ownership and renewed ambition," the club said.

The announcement of the new manager comes just days after the approval of the club’s takeover by the consortium Panjab Warriors, following the sacking of its previous boss.

“This is more than a business venture; it’s a commitment to the fans, the town, and the future of Morecambe FC," said Gurpreet Singh of Panjab Warriors, which aims to bring diversity into English football.

“Our aim is to build upon the club’s rich heritage, ensuring stability and fostering unity across all parts of the community… We believe Morecambe FC’s best days lie ahead, but actions speak louder than words – by working together with the board, the Shrimps Trust and the wider fanbase, we will look to deliver consistently, listen deeply, and put supporters at the heart of everything we do," he said.

Panjab Warriors, a London-based global sports investment firm, expressed its long-term commitment to the club driven by a genuine love for the game.

This commitment came after the club faced the risk of closure and suspension by the National League due to financial issues, resulting in unpaid players, staff, creditors, and taxes. The new manager has stated his goal is to ensure Morecambe not only survives in the National League but thrives.

The club announced its suspension from the National League had been lifted and that outstanding wages would be paid to employees this week, along with debts owed to other football creditors and taxes.

(With inputs from PTI)

Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha...Read More

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha...

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First Published:

August 19, 2025, 19:35 IST

News sports Meet Ashvir Singh Johal, First British Sikh Manager In English Football

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