Former Crystal Palace Manager, Patrick Vieira, Expected to Take Over as RC Strasbourg’s New Head Coach
Patrick Vieira Set to Become Manager at RC Strasbourg
In a surprising turn of events, former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira is reportedly on the verge of becoming the new manager at Ligue 1 club RC Strasbourg. The deal is said to be close to completion, with Vieira set to sign a three-year contract.
The 47-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by Premier League side Crystal Palace earlier this year. However, it seems he is ready for a fresh start and will now have the opportunity to showcase his managerial talents in France.
RC Strasbourg, who finished in 15th place last season in Ligue 1, just five points clear of relegation, are currently undergoing major changes off the pitch as well. Chelsea’s owners have recently agreed to acquire a majority stake in the club.
This won’t be the first time that Vieira has worked within a multi-club group structure. He previously coached Manchester City Under-23s before taking charge at New York City FC – another club affiliated with the City Football Group.
Vieira will be replacing Frederic Antonetti at RC Strasbourg. Despite guiding them away from relegation last term, Antonetti and the club decided it was best to part ways following recent investments.
The Frenchman began his coaching career after retiring from playing professionally with Manchester City in 2011. In his previous roles as manager of MLS club New York City FC and later Ligue 1 side Nice, he showcased his ability to lead teams to relative success.
During his time at Nice, Vieira led the team to a seventh-place finish in his first season. However, a run of poor form saw him being sacked in December 2020. He then made his return to the Premier League as Crystal Palace manager in July 2021.
Vieira had a decent debut season with Palace, finishing 12th and guiding them to the semi-finals of the FA Cup. Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse this year as the Eagles struggled and found themselves dangerously close to relegation before he was ultimately dismissed from his position.
Now, with a new challenge ahead of him at RC Strasbourg, Vieira will be eager to prove himself once again and help guide the club towards success in Ligue 1.