A New Era Dawns: Eirik Horneland Takes the Helm at AS Saint-Étienne
AS Saint-Étienne has wasted no time in securing its future, announcing the appointment of Eirik Horneland as head coach until 2027. This move comes just six days after the club parted ways with Olivier Dall’Oglio, ending his one-year tenure. As previously reported, Horneland, a Norwegian tactician, will be leading Les Verts into the new year.Horneland arrives in Forez with an extraordinary track record. During his three-year stint at SK Brann,he masterfully guided the team from the second tier to the top flight of Norwegian football,amassing an impressive 84 victories in 134 matches. He will be joined by his trusted assistant, Hassan El Fakiri.
This appointment marks a meaningful moment for AS Saint-Étienne, as horneland becomes the first foreign coach to lead the team since Oscar Garcia in 2017. The club confirmed that Horneland touched down in the city on Friday and will oversee his first training session on December 29th, coinciding with the teamS return from the winter break. Laurent Huard, the director of the Training Centre, will take charge for the upcoming Coupe de France clash against Olympique de Marseille.
Horneland expressed his enthusiasm,stating,”joining a prestigious club like AS Saint-Étienne is a true honor. Its rich history, remarkable achievements, and the passionate support it enjoys from the entire city are truly inspiring. I’m eager to experience the electrifying atmosphere of the Cauldron and collaborate with the players,staff,and everyone associated with the club.”
Ivan Gazidis, ASSE president, echoed the sentiment, highlighting Horneland’s talent and experience: “We are delighted to welcome a highly skilled and respected coach who will bring invaluable expertise to build a culture of excellence and a distinctive playing style.”
This strategic move by AS Saint-Étienne signals a renewed commitment to success, with Horneland’s arrival injecting fresh energy and ambition into the club as they look ahead to the 2025 season.
From Scandinavia to the Cauldron: Can Eirik Horneland Revive AS Saint-Étienne?
Welcome back, fans, to another edition of “The Pitch”! Today we’re diving into the exciting news from Ligue 2 as AS Saint-Étienne appoints Eirik Horneland as their new head coach. Joining me today is former French international and Ligue 1 veteran, Robert Pires, to dissect this intriguing move.
Robert, ASSE has been struggling in recent years, culminating in their relegation last season. How big of a statement is this appointment of Horneland?
Robert Pires: “It’s a massive statement, undoubtedly.bringing in a foreign coach like Horneland, especially one with such a triumphant track record like his, shows AS Saint-Étienne is serious about climbing back to Ligue 1. Horneland’s achievements with SK Brann, taking them from the second division to the top flight, speak volumes about his ability to build a winning culture.
Let’s talk about Horneland’s style. He’s known for an attacking, posession-based game. Do you think that will translate well to Ligue 2, and can it help saint-Étienne recapture the flair they were once known for?”
Robert Pires: ” I think it can, but it won’t be easy. Ligue 2 is a tough, physical league. Horneland will need to adapt his style to the realities of the competition while instilling his attacking beliefs into the squad. If he can manage that delicate balance,saint-Étienne has the potential to be a real force again.
I agree. The fact that Horneland is the first foreign coach to lead ASSE sence 2017 adds another layer of intrigue. Do you think his lack of experience in French football could be a hindrance?”
Robert Pires: “there’s always a challenge when a coach steps into a new league. He’ll need to quickly learn the nuances of French football, build relationships with the players, and understand the expectations of the fans. But Horneland seems like a driven individual, and I believe he has the character to overcome these challenges.”
speaking of the fans, they’re known as some of the most passionate in France. Do you think Horneland is ready for the cauldron-like atmosphere of the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard?”
Robert Pires: ” Oh, absolutely.That atmosphere can be electric, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Horneland needs to embrace that passion and make the Zidane to quell the fans’ unrest. He needs to give them something to cheer for with his style of play and, most importantly, results.”
It will be engaging to see how this unfolds, and for AS Saint-Étienne fans, there is surely a sense of cautious optimism. What are your thoughts on Horneland’s chances of bringing them back to the big time?”
robert pires:* ” I wouldn’t say it’s a sure thing, but I think Horneland has the potential to do something special at ASSE. He’s a talented coach with a proven track record, and he seems to have the right mindset for the challenge. If he can get the players buying into his philosophy and harness the amazing energy of those fanatical supporters, AS Saint-Étienne could be back in Ligue 1 sooner than many expect. only time will tell, but this appointment certainly has the makings of an exciting new chapter in the club’s history.”*
What are your thoughts,fans? Can Horneland lead AS Saint-Étienne back to Ligue 1 glory? Share your predictions in the comments below!
