Manuel Amoros Linked with Marseille Assistant Role Under Marcelo Bielsa
Former France international Manuel Amoros is reportedly being considered for the role of assistant coach to Marcelo Bielsa at Olympique de Marseille for the upcoming season.
Amoros confirmed his presence alongside the Argentine manager during Marseille’s recent home fixture against AC Ajaccio at the Stade Vélodrome. “Yes, I was sitting next to him during the match against Ajaccio. It’s true. There was also Diego Reyes,” he told Media Foot Marseille, referring to the Chilean fitness coach known to work closely with Bielsa.
The development fuels speculation that the former Marseille and Monaco defender may return to the club in an official capacity as part of a new coaching setup led by Bielsa, whose appointment as head coach is widely anticipated but yet to be formally confirmed.
Amoros, 52, brings with him international coaching experience, having managed national sides in Africa. He briefly coordinated the Comoros national team before taking charge of Benin in January 2012 on a two-year contract. His tenure, however, ended prematurely in June 2013 following disputes with Benin Football Federation President Anjorin Moucharafou, leading to a mutual termination of his contract.
A popular figure in French football, Amoros earned over 80 caps for France during his playing career and won the European Championship in 1984. His potential return to Marseille in a coaching role would be seen as a homecoming of sorts, and his presence on the sidelines has only added weight to the rumours.
As Marseille look to rebuild following an underwhelming Ligue 1 campaign, the combination of Bielsa’s tactical acumen and Amoros’ experience in both domestic and international football could signal a fresh start for the southern club.
An official announcement regarding the coaching staff is expected in the coming weeks as OM finalise preparations for the 2014–15 season.
