Paris FC Fires Stéphane Gilli, Names Antoine Kombouaré as New Coach

Paris FC has dismissed head coach Stéphane Gilli after a run of six winless games and appointed Antoine Kombouaré as his successor in a bid to avoid relegation, according to multiple reports from Yahoo Sports. Kombouaré, 62, signed a contract until the end of the season with an option to extend should the club remain in Ligue 1. Paris FC currently sits 15th in the league, six points above the relegation zone, with 11 matches remaining.

Gilli, who took charge in 2023 and helped Paris FC achieve promotion from Ligue 2 last season, was praised by players such as defender Moustapha Mbow for his support and trust. Under Gilli’s leadership, the club notably recorded a French Cup upset against Paris Saint-Germain in January, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

The managerial change signals a sharp departure from Paris FC’s previous long-term strategy focused on youth development and a regional approach. Guardian Sport US highlights that this shift was driven by fears of relegation after the takeover by Antoine Arnault, representing LVMH, and the Red Bull group. The club’s new direction echoes prior interventions seen in French football ownership models, including at Paris Saint-Germain.

Antoine Kombouaré is a seasoned coach who managed top French clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain from 2009 to 2011, Strasbourg, and Nantes. His mid-season appointment involved some initial resistance ahead of the takeover but was agreed upon as Paris FC seeks immediate results in Ligue 1, reports Yahoo Sports.

Looking ahead, Paris FC’s performance under Kombouaré will be closely watched as they aim to secure survival in Ligue 1 with the new management team. The coming weeks will determine if the tactical pivot and change in leadership can stabilize the club’s position and meet the expectations of the Arnault family and Red Bull investors.