Ripoll takes Lorient reins from Gourcuff
Sunday, May 25, 2014
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"I'm determined to take on this fantastic challenge," said Sylvain Ripoll after being promoted from assistant to head coach of FC Lorient after Christian Gourcuff opted not to extend his stay.
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Sylvain Ripoll has been named as the new coach of FC Lorient after Christian Gourcuff opted not to extend his contract with the club.
The Brittany side finished eighth in Ligue 1 in 2013/14 but will be under new management for the first time in 11 years next term after Gourcuff stepped down. Ripoll, a former Lorient defender, had been serving as Gourcuff's assistant.
"I am very happy with this news and very honoured with the faith that's been put in me," explained Ripoll, 42. "I'm determined to take on this fantastic challenge to begin an excellent adventure. I've identified myself with this club for several years, and the philosophy that's been put in place matches mine.
"I'm eager to face this challenge to take the club further," he added, with the club set to appoint an assistant soon. "The club have a fine heritage and a new adventure is starting. It's down to us to be up to the task and carry on along the same path. There's real excitement and huge motivation."
