Lee Johnson reflects on his career and future after Fleetwood exit

Lee Johnson, a former manager of Sunderland and Bristol City, has taken a nine-month break from football to focus on personal and professional development. During this time, he engaged in mentoring and online coaching sessions, reflecting on his extensive experience in the sport. Johnson, who became the youngest manager in the Football League at 31, has been involved in football for over half his life, both as a player and a coach. He acknowledges the significant changes in the football landscape and emphasizes the importance of adaptability and understanding people in coaching. Johnson believes that his time away has made him a better coach and manager, citing his success in player development and tactical coaching. He is eager to return to management and prove his capabilities. Johnson expresses a desire for alignment among ownership, management, and players within a club, highlighting his vision for how a team should operate. He aims for his players to reflect his personality on the pitch, which he sees as crucial for success. Despite the challenges of being out of work for the longest period in his career, Johnson values the friendships he has made in football and remains optimistic about future opportunities. His experiences have shaped his coaching philosophy, and he is ready to embrace the next chapter in his career.