Olympique Marseille, one of the giants in French football, has announced the appointment of Jean-Linus Gasset as their new head coach.
Gasset, who was recently relieved from his duties as the Ivory Coast coach during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, has signed a short-term contract with Marseille. His appointment comes after the sacking of Italian Gennaro Gattuso, who failed to meet the club’s expectations.
The former Ivory Coast coach has inked a four-month contract and is set to lead the team until the end of the 2023/23 season.
Gasset’s first test will be on Thursday when Marseille takes on Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League. The new head coach will be eager to make a strong start at the club.
His main objectives include advancing in the Europa League and improving the team’s performance in the league. Marseille is currently eight points away from the European qualification spots and Gasset will be tasked with revitalizing the team’s form.
Gasset becomes the fourth manager in charge of Marseille this season, following spells with Marcelino, Jacques Abardonado, and Gattuso.
The 58-year-old tactician was relieved of his duties by the Ivorian Football Federation after a heavy defeat against Equatorial Guinea in their last group game at the AFCON.
However, his departure proved to be a blessing in disguise as the Ivory Coast went on to win the AFCON title on home soil, defeating Nigeria in the final under the guidance of interim coach Emerse Fae.
