Houllier stands down as Villa manager
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
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Manager Gérard Houllier has left Aston Villa FC only nine months into his three-year contract as the 63-year-old contines his recuperation following heart problems.
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Gérard Houllier has stepped down as manager of Aston Villa FC as he continues to recover from heart problems.
The former France, Liverpool FC and Olympique Lyonnais coach missed the final five games of the season and tests have shown he will need further time to recuperate, leading to the 63-year-old leaving his post by mutual consent.
"I am extremely disappointed that I will not have the opportunity to manage Aston Villa next season," said Houllier. "My health has improved considerably since I was taken ill on 20 April. I now intend to take the next few months to concentrate on recuperating fully before I may return to football. It has been an honour to manage this great club and I wish everyone connected with Aston Villa every success for the future."
Villa finished ninth in the Premier League after the former technical director at the French Football Federation arrived in September 2010 as successor to Martin O'Neill. Houllier, who spent six seasons at Liverpool and guided them to the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup in 2000/01, had signed a three-year deal at Villa Park.
