Troussier takes Marseille reins
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Article summary
Philippe Troussier has been confirmed as Olympique de Marseille coach, signing an 18-month contract.
Article body
Frenchman Philippe Troussier has been confirmed as the new coach of Olympique de Marseille, and signed a one-and-a-half year contract with the Ligue 1 side on Saturday night.
'Beautiful challenge'
Two days after he reached an agreement in principle with the French side, the former coach of Qatar completed the formalities of the deal. "I'm delighted to be back on home soil after 15 years abroad," said the 49-year-old, who has coached several national teams in Africa and Asia since 1989 but never a top-flight club in Europe. "To train Marseille was a kind of dream. I'm delighted to take this beautiful challenge at a great European club."
League success
On Saturday night, Troussier attended Marseille's win 3-1 to FC Nantes Atlantique, a result which moved the Provence side fifth in Ligue 1. He was not on the bench but instead sat alongside his predecessor José Anigo, who resigned on Wednesday, leaving Albert Emon to take charge of team affairs. "My aim will be to put Marseille in the UEFA Champions League," Troussier said.
