Morecambe FC has been plunged into a new era of change and drama, with the club's new owners, Panjab Warriors, sacking manager Derek Adams just hours after their takeover was confirmed.
In a swift move that signals their ambitious plans, the new ownership has already appointed 30-year-old coach Ashvir Singh Johal as the club's new manager.
The saga began with the welcome news that Morecambe had been saved from extinction.
The club, which has been in a state of financial crisis for months, had its first three National League matches postponed due to its inability to meet financial obligations.
But, the Panjab Warriors group has officially completed its acquisition, securing the club's future.
However, the first action of the new owners was a shock to the Shrimps faithful: the dismissal of Derek Adams.
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Adams was in his third spell at the club, having returned in June 2024.
A club statement paid tribute to his "leadership and steadiness" during a "testing chapter" but made it clear that a "strategic transition in leadership" was needed as the club enters a new era.
The focus quickly shifted to Adams' replacement.
In a move that highlights the new ownership's commitment to modern, forward-thinking football, Morecambe unveiled Ashvir Singh Johal as their new manager.
Morecambe Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Ashvir Singh Johal as the Club’s new First Team Manager.
— Morecambe FC (@MorecambeFC) August 19, 2025
The full interview will be available at 09:30 🎥#UTS 🦐
Johal, at just 30, is reportedly one of the youngest UEFA Pro Licence holders in Europe.
He arrives with an impressive CV that includes a decade coaching in Leicester City's academy and a stint as a first-team coach at Wigan Athletic.
He has also worked as an assistant to Cesc Fabregas at Como.
His appointment marks a significant moment for British football, as he becomes both the youngest boss and the first British-Asian head coach across the top five English leagues.
Johal's immediate priority, as he stated in an interview with the club, is to "identify the players that we need in this building to ensure Morecambe Football Club can perform well in the National League."
His appointment brings an end to a period of unprecedented turmoil at the club and marks the beginning of what the new owners hope will be an exciting new chapter.
The Shrimps are now set to play their first match of the season at home to Altrincham this Saturday.
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