Aston Villa is pleased to announce the appointment of James Shan as the new Under-21 Head Coach, with Josep Gombau set to depart the club.
Shan, who has been the Under-18 Head Coach since last summer, led Villa’s Under-18s to a superb treble in 2024/25 where they topped the Under-18 Premier League Southern Section table, won the Under-18 Premier League national title and lifted the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
Gombau was appointed in January 2024 having previously worked in coaching posts all over the globe including Barcelona’s renowned youth academy as well as the Australian Olympic team, the Olyroos, and led Villa’s youngsters to the Round of 16 of the UEFA Youth League last term.
Monchi, President of Football Operations, said: “The Club is very excited by the talent of our Academy players. Jimmy has shown his ability to conduct and develop players with the Under-18s winning the league and the FA Youth Cup and we look forward to watching him work with our Under-21s.”
Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Josep all the best in his future endeavours while also wishing James good luck in his new role with the Under-21 side.
