League One side Wigan Athletic have confirmed the appointment of Ryan Lowe as their new manager following the departure of Shaun Maloney earlier this season. Preston North End CEO Peter Ridsdale has informed The Deck he is “delighted” for the 46-year-old.
Wigan Athletic Part Ways with Shaun Maloney
Despite being a club legend, Maloney struggled to meet expectations this season. A poor run of form, with just one win in seven games, left Wigan sitting 15th in the League One table, dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Following his exit, Glenn Whelan took over as interim boss, securing a draw against Mansfield Town and a win over Cambridge United. However, the club has now turned to former Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe to take charge on a permanent basis.
Ryan Lowe’s Return to Management
Lowe, who left Preston North End in August 2024 after just one game of the new season, is now set to lead Wigan Athletic. At the time of his departure, Preston CEO Peter Ridsdale confirmed that Lowe requested to leave, telling the BBC:
“Ryan’s position was absolutely clear. He told me he wanted a break, a change. We’ve accepted that, shaken hands, and agreed on the terms of his exit.”
Exclusive Quote: Peter Ridsdale Wishes Ryan Lowe Luck
Now, Ridsdale has wished Lowe success in his new role at Wigan Athletic, speaking exclusively to The Deck:
“I’m delighted for him. He worked really hard for us and got us to 10th in the league. I wish him every success.”
Ryan Lowe’s Managerial Record and Style
Lowe has built a strong reputation in English football management, particularly for his attacking style of play having worked his way up through the EFL. His key achievements include:
- Bury FC – Led the club to League Two promotion in 2019.
- Plymouth Argyle – Secured League One promotion in 2020.
- Preston North End – Maintained a competitive position in the Championship, finishing 13th, 12th, and 10th in successive seasons before his exit in 2024.
What has Ryan Lowe said?
Ryan Lowe discussed his appointment with the club’s official website:
“I’m pleased to be here because it’s a fantastic Football Club with history and tradition. The Club has had some good times and some bad times, and I’m here to bring the good times back. Hopefully we can have the Brick bouncing every Saturday afternoon and Tuesday evening.
“I’m really excited about the project and I liked what the Ownership Group had to say. They showed me the vision of the Football Club and talked about getting the Club back to where it belongs – and the first target is to get to the Championship.”
“We’ve got to take short, mid and then long term steps to get there. We’ve got a vision and a plan, which is the most important thing. If we all buy into that plan and vision, I’m sure we will be successful.
“I’m really excited for the future and to build Wigan Athletic back to where they should be.”
Now, the former Preston boss will be looking to get to grips with the Wigan Athletic squad, planning for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign.