Marseille are preparing for life after Jean-Louis Gasset.
The French club are currently enjoying a successful spell under Gasset, who took over from Jorge Sampaoli in February. However, according to L’Equipe, Gasset is not expected to remain beyond the end of the season.
Gasset has made a positive impact. In his five games in charge, Marseille have won five, propelling them into contention for a place in the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals and within touching distance of the UEFA Champions League places in Ligue 1. The veteran coach has steadied the ship and rekindled the spirit of the Marseille faithful. However, it seems that Gasset and the Marseille hierarchy share the same understanding that his was always a short-term solution.
With Gasset’s departure looming, Marseille are wasting no time in considering their options. Two familiar names are on the list of candidates: Paulo Fonseca and Christophe Galtier.
Fonseca, who was a target for Marseille last summer before Jorge Sampaoli was appointed, is back in the frame. The Portuguese coach, who has yet to commit to Lille OSC, is again being sounded out. Meanwhile, Christophe Galtier, currently managing in Qatar, is also being considered as a potential successor to Gasset.
Fonseca’s second chance. The interest in Fonseca represents a second chance for the Portuguese coach to make his mark at the Stade Vélodrome. Last summer, Marseille president Pablo Longoria opted for Sampaoli, but Fonseca’s availability and track record make him an attractive proposition once again. His success in previous roles and the uncertainty surrounding his future at Lille make him a strong contender.
Galtier’s international experience. Christophe Galtier, meanwhile, brings a wealth of experience to the table. The former Lille coach, who famously guided the club to a Ligue 1 title in 2020-21, boasts an impressive CV and his tactical nous makes him an interesting option for Marseille. It remains to be seen whether Galtier would be willing to return to French football and take on the challenge of leading Marseille to new heights.
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