Ainsworth departs Shrewsbury to take charge of Gillingham.

Gillingham Appoint Gareth Ainsworth as New Manager

Gillingham have named Gareth Ainsworth as their new manager, replacing John Coleman. The former Wycombe Wanderers boss joins on a contract until 2027 after leaving Shrewsbury Town, where he had been in charge since November.

Ainsworth, 51, departs Shrewsbury with the club bottom of League One, having won just five of his 22 games. His assistant, Richard Dobson, will also make the switch to Gillingham, who currently sit 19th in League Two. Ainsworth will take charge for Saturday’s match against Harrogate Town.

Coleman, 62, was only appointed by Gillingham in January but managed just two wins in 14 games before his departure was confirmed on Tuesday. Ainsworth now becomes the club’s fifth manager in 18 months, following Neil Harris, Stephen Clemence, Mark Bonner, and Coleman. 

Shrewsbury Shocked by Ainsworth’s Departure

Shrewsbury chairman Roland Wycherley expressed "shock and dismay" at Ainsworth’s decision to leave, revealing the club had fought hard to keep him. They had even offered him a two-year contract extension, regardless of their league status, but Ainsworth insisted on leaving immediately after Gillingham triggered his release clause.

Wycherley acknowledged the frustration among fans, stating, "We did everything in our power to persuade Gareth to stay." Shrewsbury, still 14 points from safety with nine matches left, are now searching for a new head coach and hope to have someone in place for their game against league leaders Birmingham City on Saturday.

Ainsworth’s Exit ‘Caught Shrewsbury by Surprise’ 

BBC Radio Shropshire’s Nick Southall reported that the move blindsided Shrewsbury, as Ainsworth had spoken about a long-term project at the club. Despite their struggles, he had previously insisted he was committed to building something for the future.

However, with Gillingham activating his release clause, the decision was made. Now, both clubs face crucial weeks ahead—Shrewsbury in their fight for survival and Gillingham in their battle to stay clear of the League Two relegation zone.