Patrick Vieira Appointed Manager of RC Strasbourg
Patrick Vieira has been appointed manager of Ligue 1 club RC Strasbourg on a three-year contract. The former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder is no stranger to multi-club groups, having coached Manchester City’s under-23s and New York City FC in the past. He will replace Frederic Antonetti, who guided Strasbourg away from relegation last season.
Vieira’s Coaching Career
Vieira began his coaching career when he retired from playing with Manchester City in 2011, and took charge of the club’s elite development squad in 2013. In 2015, the Frenchman made the switch to New York and the MLS before returning to Europe three years later with Ligue 1 side Nice. Vieira led Nice to a seventh-place finish in his first season but was sacked in December 2020 after a run of poor form.
Return to the Premier League
In July 2021, a decade after he retired from playing in the English top flight, Vieira returned to the Premier League as Palace manager in place of Roy Hodgson. He guided the Eagles to 12th in his debut season, while Palace also reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup. However, Vieira was dismissed in March, with his team winless in 2023 and only three points above the Premier League relegation zone.
Vieira Excited to Join Strasbourg
Vieira said of his new role: “I am particularly happy to join Racing. I know the history and the identity of this club, the fervour it arouses, the importance it has for its region, which is a place of football and passion.” He added: “The rebuilding of the club in recent years, under the direction of Marc Keller (Strasbourg president), is an example to be admired. Working with him is a real pleasure for me. Today, a new cycle begins for Racing and it is exciting as a coach to be able to build something while relying on the values that have defined the strength of the club.”
Chelsea’s Investment in Strasbourg
Chelsea’s owners recently agreed a deal to buy a majority stake in Strasbourg, who finished 15th in the French top flight last season, five points above the relegation zone. This investment will no doubt help Vieira to build on the success of Antonetti and take Strasbourg to new heights.
Conclusion
Vieira is an experienced coach who has worked at some of the biggest clubs in Europe and North America. With his knowledge and experience, he is sure to be a great asset for Strasbourg as they look to build on their recent success and move up the Ligue 1 table.