Lee Johnson reflects on a whirlwind year that saw him manage three clubs in two different countries. In this interview, Johnson opens up about the challenges he faced and his passion for coaching.

Johnson’s hectic year began with a sour turn at Hibernian, where a gesture to calm fans during a Europa Conference League qualifier was misinterpreted, setting the tone for his tenure. Despite winning the EFL Trophy with Sunderland and achieving success at Bristol City, Johnson found himself without a club after brief stints at Fleetwood Town and Hibernian.

He describes his time at Fleetwood Town as a mismatch, lasting only 111 days. Johnson, a veteran manager at just 42, quickly realized the club’s playing squad had many square pegs in round holes, setting him up for an uphill battle.

Despite the setbacks, Johnson remains positive and hungry to get back into management. He believes in his ability to add value and innovation to a club, and hopes that his broader decade-long track record is considered rather than just the last year.

During his time away from management, Johnson has been giving back to the next generation of coaches, offering mentoring and advice. He has also been exploring other avenues in football, including squad analysis and strategic roles, but ultimately, his passion remains on the training ground with the players.

Johnson describes coaching as a drug, an addictive pursuit that he craves. He is eager to build something special and achieve success again, knowing that the highs of management make the lows worth enduring.

Johnson, a veteran manager, quickly realized Fleetwood Town wasn’t the right fit.

Johnson, a well-traveled manager, is optimistic about his future in football. He has received approaches from decent clubs in England and abroad, but is waiting for the right project to come along. In the meantime, he continues to give back to the game by mentoring young coaches and exploring other roles within the sport.