Hervé Renard Confirms Sochaux Exit After Relegation, Eyes Top-Level Return
Hervé Renard has officially stepped down as manager of Sochaux following the club’s relegation to Ligue 2, honouring a promise he made weeks ago should the team fail to retain its top-flight status.
The Lionceaux saw their Ligue 1 campaign end in disappointment with a crushing 3-0 defeat at home to Evian Thonon-Gaillard on Saturday — a result that sealed their relegation. Renard, who took over midway through the season, had previously declared he would not continue if the club dropped to the second tier.
Now, with his departure confirmed, the 45-year-old Frenchman is considering his next move. Speaking to L’Équipe, Renard outlined his ambitions clearly: “My priority is to stay in Ligue 1 or in Europe, to play in the Champions League or the Europa League.”
One potential destination could be Olympique Lyonnais, where speculation is growing that he could succeed outgoing coach Rémi Garde. Lyon, a club with regular European aspirations, fits the profile Renard described.
Renard, who famously led Zambia to their historic 2012 Africa Cup of Nations title, has not ruled out a return to African football either. “I’ll wait a bit, and if I don’t have anything, I’ll return to Africa, where I shouldn’t have too much trouble finding work,” he added.
His track record on the continent makes him a highly attractive option for several national sides currently in search of experienced leadership. Among the countries reportedly interested are DR Congo and Gabon — both of whom are looking to strengthen ahead of upcoming international competitions.
While Sochaux begin planning for life in Ligue 2, Renard’s future is set to remain a hot topic in the coming weeks, with both European clubs and African federations likely to keep a close eye on his availability.
