Pierre Aristouy sacked as Nantes manager, Jocelyn Gourvennec set to take over | OneFootball

FC Nantes have confirmed the departure of Pierre Aristouy as manager. His replacement, expected to be Jocelyn Gourvennec, will be announced later today, as confirmed by the club.

Aristouy replaced Antoine Kombouaré in May and succeeded in sparing Nantes from relegation to Ligue 2. He quickly came under threat after beginning the season with back-to-back losses, however, a run of good results saw the pressure ease. The latest downturn in form has put pay to Aristouy’s time at the Beaujoire. Les Canaris are winless in their last four Ligue 1 matches, and prior to last weekend’s draw against Le Havre AC, they had lost three on the bounce.

Nantes have now officialised Aristouy’s departure. “The club will announce the name of Aristouy’s departure within the day,” read the statement.

Gourvennec set for managerial return

As reported by L’Équipe, RMC Sport and Foot Mercato, former Lille OSC manager Gourvennec will be the man to replace Aristouy. The Frenchman has been out of work for 18 months since leaving Lille. He had applied to become manager of the France U21s and the France Women’s side without success, however, after a considerable absence, he will make his return to management.

Nantes currently sit 11th in Ligue 1 but have the second-worst defence in France’s top flight (23 goals conceded). Gourvennec will be tasked with steering Les Canaris to safety once again this season.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle