Fabio Grosso has been introduced to the media as the new Olympique Lyonnais head coach this Monday. The 2006 World Cup-winning Italian left-back has returned to his former club to take over the vacant managerial position. Grosso spent two seasons with Les Gones, winning the 2008 Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France. The former Inter Milan and Juventus defender has retained fond memories of his time at Lyon. “I found here an extraordinary atmosphere“, Grosso said in his press conference transcribed by L’Equipe. “I have kept a great memory of this experience.”
Grosso was a free agent after leaving Frosinone in the wake of their promotion to Serie A. The Italian manager confirmed he was previously in talks with Olympique de Marseille over their own managerial vacancy following Igor Tudor’s resignation. Les Phocéens eventually appointed former Valencia CF manager Marcelino. “We talked with Marseille. They made a choice and I wished them luck.” Grosso was enthused at the prospect of returning to French football. “I’ve always felt kindness here. We can be booed or applauded, but the most important thing is respect, and I was never short of it.“
Grosso will be tasked to restore Lyon’s status as a powerhouse in French football following disappointing tenures from Dutch manager Peter Bosz and 1998 World Cup winner Laurent Blanc. Silverware have eluded Les Gones since 2012 and they missed European qualification for the second year in a row. Lyon are 16th in the league after a poor start to the season. “We need to give our all for this club”, added Grosso. “Saying it won’t be enough, we need to feel it. We will try to get this club back where it deserves to be.“
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
