Jean-Louis Gasset Returns to Montpellier at 70 to Rescue Struggling Ligue 1 Side
Jean-Louis Gasset, a seasoned football coach with a wealth of experience, has been appointed as the new manager of Montpellier at the age of 70. Gasset takes over from Michel Der Zakarian, who was sacked following Montpellier's dismal start to the French Ligue 1 season. Montpellier currently sit at the bottom of the table, having managed only one victory in their opening eight matches. The final blow for Der Zakarian came after a crushing 5-0 defeat to Marseille, a result that left the club reeling and the fans and management deeply frustrated.
Gasset's return to Montpellier marks a full-circle moment in his career. His coaching journey began at Stade de la Mosson in 1985, where he first held a head coaching position. He briefly returned in 2017 for a season, and now, in 2024, he is once again tasked with leading the club, this time out of a perilous position in the league. His reappointment comes as a surprising turn of events, as Gasset had retired after leaving Marseille at the end of last season, where he had served as an assistant coach.
Gasset is also well-known for his international experience, having managed the Ivory Coast national team. He guided them to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, but his tenure ended abruptly during the tournament, as he resigned with the team on the verge of elimination during the group stage. Despite this setback, his extensive knowledge of French football, coupled with his managerial experience, has made him an attractive option for Montpellier, who are desperate to turn their season around.
Montpellier president Laurent Nicollin expressed deep disappointment following the Marseille defeat, stating, "I'm ashamed of losing 5-0 at home to Marseille. I'm ashamed for myself, my club, and the supporters." Nicollin's remarks reflect the urgency with which Montpellier is approaching the remainder of the season, as they look to Gasset to bring stability and experience to a team that has struggled to find its footing.
As Gasset steps in, he faces the challenge of reinvigorating a team low on confidence and in desperate need of points. With a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the club, he will look to draw on his decades of knowledge to steer Montpellier out of the relegation zone.
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