Strasbourg Names Hugo Oliveira as Head Coach Following Gary O'Neil's Unexpected Exit
Strasbourg announced on Sunday that Hugo Oliveira will take over as their new head coach after Gary O'Neil left the club last month without much notice.
O'Neil, who had joined the French Ligue 1 team only in January, decided to return to England by signing with Ipswich on June 26. His sudden departure left Strasbourg searching for a replacement.
The club has not revealed the details or length of Oliveira's contract. The 47-year-old arrives from Famalicao, a Portuguese top-tier team, where he experienced his first role as a head coach.
"It's an honor to be here in Strasbourg and to join such a great project," Oliveira expressed in a club statement. "I want to bring emotion, create memories and give the best of myself to help the club to develop."
Before taking charge at Famalicao in December 2024, Oliveira spent much of his coaching career specializing as a goalkeeping coach. He worked with the Portugal national team, Everton, and Fulham, collaborating closely with manager Marco Silva during his time in England.
During Oliveira’s tenure, Famalicao achieved fifth place in the Primeira Liga last season, marking their highest finish since their promotion six years ago.
O'Neil, meanwhile, had steered Strasbourg to an impressive run reaching the Conference League semi-finals and securing eighth place in Ligue 1 last term.
Looking ahead, Strasbourg will kick off their Ligue 1 campaign against Marseille during the weekend of August 21-23.
Key Details:
- New Coach: Hugo Oliveira (Portuguese, 47 years old)
- Previous Club: Famalicao (Portugal)
- Former Coach: Gary O'Neil (left June 26 for Ipswich)
- Oliveira’s Background: Goalkeeping coach at Portugal, Everton, Fulham; first head coach role at Famalicao
- Famalicao’s Last Season Finish: 5th in Primeira Liga (best since promotion)
- Strasbourg’s Previous Season: 8th in Ligue 1, Conference League semi-finalists
- Next Match: vs. Marseille, August 21-23 weekend
