Georgia part company with Willy Sagnol after six years in charge

Georgia have dismissed head coach Willy Sagnol following their 1-0 defeat by Northern Ireland in the opening round of the Nations League.

The Georgian Football Federation confirmed that Ramaz Svanadze will take charge of the national team until the end of 2028.

Sagnol, 49, became Georgia manager in 2021 and guided the team to the European Championship finals for the first time in its history at Euro 2024.

He oversaw 59 matches during his time in charge, recording 25 wins, 11 draws and 23 defeats.

Svanadze currently manages Georgia Under-21s and has previously led the youth side to the European Championship on two occasions.

His first match as senior manager will be against Ukraine next Monday. Georgia will then face Hungary and Northern Ireland in two further fixtures during the current international break.

Sagnol thanks Georgia for ‘unforgettable’ years

The Georgian Football Federation published a farewell message from Sagnol after announcing his departure.

“Dear Georgia, six unforgettable years have passed; years filled with emotions, special moments and unique experiences that I will carry in my heart for as long as I live,” he wrote.

“I thank this country for everything it has given me.

“I would also like to offer special thanks to the Football Federation and the players. You gave me the opportunity to experience emotions I had never felt before, and moments I will never forget.

“However, even the most beautiful stories must come to an end one day. Now the time has come to say goodbye, with all the respect, gratitude and dignity that farewell carries.

“I am not leaving behind merely colleagues or people who share the same ideas as me. I am leaving individuals with whom I built genuine and deep friendships over the years – friendships I am certain will bring us together for decades to come.

“Georgia will always hold a special place in my heart.

“I wish you a bright future with all my heart, because you deserve it more than anything.

“Thank you for these six exceptional years. Goodbye, and I am certain we will meet again very soon.”