Patrick Vieira to Become New Manager of RC Strasbourg
Patrick Vieira is set to become the new manager of French Ligue 1 club RC Strasbourg. BBC Sport understands that the 47-year-old ex-Arsenal midfielder will sign a three-year contract and the deal should be completed on Sunday. Vieira is no stranger to multi-club groups, having coached Manchester City Under-23s before taking over at New York City, who are also part of the City Football Group.
Background of Patrick Vieira
Patrick 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 became manager of MLS club New York City FC, before returning to Europe three years later, with Ligue 1 side Nice. Vieira led them to a seventh-place finish in his first season but was sacked in December 2020 after a run of poor form.
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 inaugural season, while Palace also reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup. However, the 47-year-old was dismissed in March, with the Eagles winless in 2023 and only three points above the Premier League relegation zone.
Chelsea’s Investment in RC Strasbourg
The move comes after 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 has resulted in Frederic Antonetti, 61, agreeing to part ways with the club following the recent investment.
Conclusion
With his experience in coaching and managing teams, Patrick Vieira is set to become the new manager of RC Strasbourg. His experience and knowledge will be a great asset for the club as they look to build on their 15th place finish last season and push for a higher position in the Ligue 1 table.