Englishman Replaces Liam Rosenior Following Move to Sister Club Chelsea.

Gary O’Neil Strasbourg coach

RC Strasbourg Alsace have confirmed the appointment of Gary O’Neil as their new head coach on January 7, 2026, filling the vacancy left by Liam Rosenior’s move to sister club Chelsea.

The 42-year-old Englishman, out of work since his dismissal from Wolverhampton Wanderers in December 2024, brings Premier League experience from spells at Bournemouth and Wolves – managing 88 top-flight games.

Club president Marc Keller welcomed the new boss: “I am very happy to welcome Gary O’Neil to Racing. He is a demanding and recognised coach, with a modern approach to football that is fully part of the continuity of our sports project.”

O’Neil expressed excitement: “I’m excited to get started and proud to be part of this fantastic club. We have a squad of very high quality and clear, ambitious objectives for the season. My priority is to work hard with the team and give everything for the club’s success.”

He will lead his first training session on Thursday and debut on the bench Saturday in the Coupe de France Round of 32 against fourth-division Avranches.

Strasbourg sit seventh in Ligue 1 and have qualified for the UEFA Conference League knockout phase under the BlueCo multi-club model.

This marks O’Neil’s first managerial role outside England, adding to the intrigue in French football’s evolving landscape.