Motherwell land new manager as same approach taken to replicate Askou success

Johansson, a 35-year-old Swede, arrives at Fir Park a month on from leaving Norwegian side Rosenborg, where he was head coach between 2024 and 2026. Motherwell have not disclosed the length of his contract but confirmed that all current football staff will remain at the club.

Johansson replaces Jens Berthel Askou, who departed Motherwell for Toulouse after guiding the Steelmen to a fourth-placed finish in the Premiership. And the Fir Park hierarchy feel Johansson ticked the most boxes as they bid to replicate that form and style of football for the 2026/27 season.

"We are delighted to welcome Alfred to the football club," Motherwell chairman Kyrk Macmillan said. "Following the same data-driven process that we undertook to appoint the previous two managers of the football club, we believe Alfred is an excellent fit here at Motherwell. The data plays a key role to ensure the game model aligns with how we want to play and continues our evolution, but the process is also blended with ensuring we bring good people to the club.

"We met with Alfred on a number of occasions, and he stood out as the best candidate to continue our journey at the club. It became evident from our conversations that there was a clear alignment between both parties, and we have built a strong relationship already. Identifying and appointing someone that fits with the type of people we want to work with is equally as important.

"There is a strong belief that Alfred has the correct characteristics to lead and deliver on his ideas. He is a determined and ambitious young manager who wants to continue the success we had last season.

"It was important for the squad that we completed our detailed process of recruiting a new manager, but we were also conscious of time. With the players back in for pre-season this week, Alfred can begin working with his new squad ahead of a busy and exciting period for the football club.

"We were delighted with the connection our fans had with the team last season and we hope to take that even further this campaign.”

Johansson has experience of European football, having led Rosenborg to the final round of the Conference League qualifiers. His first match in charge of Motherwell will be in that competition when they face Faroese opposition in Havnar Boltfelag next month.

"This is a huge honour for me," Johansson said. "To work at this football club and to lead is a privilege. I've analysed the club closely, and the direction that it's going in is of huge importance to me. Last season was hugely successful, and I want to be able to carry this success forward. The squad of players we have is exciting, and we will get to work straight away.

"There is no time to waste with European football next month and the league season starting in a few weeks. I can't wait to get to know all the players and staff at the club, but most importantly, I'm looking forward to meeting the supporters. I'll see you all very soon."