New Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth has opened up about his surprise departure from Shrewsbury Town, revealing the lure of a clear two-year vision at Priestfield made the decision too compelling to turn down.
Ainsworth, who faced the local press for the first time on Thursday, admitted it was a wrench to walk away from Shrewsbury, where he was offered a new deal to stay on as manager. However, the opportunity to lead a defined project at Gillingham proved decisive.
‘Guaranteed plan’ swayed Ainsworth
“This wasn’t done lightly, but I’m really happy now. We made a decision, it’s a good decision because we know where we’re going. We have plenty of backing from the owners now to execute this plan, which I think this club has been crying out for.”
Despite Shrewsbury sitting bottom of League One, Ainsworth stressed he didn’t take the exit lightly and remains respectful of his former club’s hierarchy and supporters. However, with Gillingham co-owners Brad and Shannon Galinson presenting a long-term roadmap, he felt the time was right to embrace a new chapter.
Gillingham activated a termination clause to secure Ainsworth and his long-time assistant Richard Dobson, bringing them to Kent with nine games left in the current League Two campaign.
It marks yet another managerial change at the Gills, where recent years have seen short-lived tenures from Neil Harris, Stephen Clemence, Mark Bonner, and most recently John Coleman, who lasted just 14 matches. The board are now hoping that the Ainsworth-Dobson duo brings much-needed stability.
Co-owner Galinson echoed that view, admitting past errors in continuity and outlining the thinking behind the two-year plan.
“We knew we needed to look at having a two-year solid plan, at least, and a management team that we would want to stay the course with,” she said. “Thinking about Gareth and Richard… we couldn’t think of anybody better.”
Ainsworth also noted the personal benefits of relocating back closer to home after his time in Shropshire, adding that he had missed his family during his stint at Shrewsbury.
While immediate targets remain unspoken, the sense is that Gillingham’s new leadership group believe in building, not quick fixes.
Writer’s view
Ainsworth’s arrival marks a real turning point at Gillingham – not just in terms of football, but philosophy. The Galinsons’ commitment to long-term planning has tempted a manager known for loyalty and passion. If the club can finally stick to a structure, the revolving door may stop spinning – and progress might just follow.
