The coaching carousel that has taken over European Football since the end of the season continued today with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid both appointing new managers. The moves come as no surprise, as they had been rumored for days in PSG’s case; and months for Madrid. PSG hired former French National team coach Laurent Blanc; while Madrid finally confirmed the hiring of PSG’s now former coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Blanc resigned as French National team coah following their quarterfinal loss at the 2012 Euros. He had previously coached Bourdeaux to the 2009 Ligue 1 title. Now he will take over a squad that won the 2013 Ligue 1 title under Ancelotti, and is looking for success on the continental stage.
“Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce the appointment of Laurent Blanc as coach for the next two years. He will take charge of the squad on 1 July 2013 for the start of pre-season training,” read a club statement. “The board of Paris Saint-Germain has given Laurent Blanc the mission to build on last season and to continue the club’s ascendency towards the summits of the European game.”
The hiring of a new coach finally allowed Carlo Ancelotti to leave PSG and take over at Real Madrid. He signed a three year deal with the club and is expected to be introduced in a press conference on Wednesday.
“Familiar with the pressures of managing the great teams of the continent (Juventus, Milan, Chelsea and PSG) the Italian is a guarantee to direct an exciting project,” Real said on their website.
Ancelotti has coached at other European giants like Chelsea, AC Milan, and Juventus. As a manager he has won two UEFA Champions League Titles, one Serie A title, the FA Cup, and Premier League title, amongst his 14 career trophies.
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Photo Credit: Doha Stadium Plus Qatar, Wiki Commons, CC
