Could Raymond Domenech Return to Management at FC Lorient?
In what would be one of the most surprising comebacks in French football, Raymond Domenech is reportedly being considered for the managerial post at FC Lorient. According to emerging speculation, club president Loïc Féry has his eye on the former France national team coach to replace the long-serving Christian Gourcuff—a move that would undoubtedly generate significant media attention.
Domenech, now 62, has remained largely absent from management since his controversial exit following France’s infamous 2010 World Cup campaign. Since then, he has worked as a pundit and stayed on the sidelines of professional coaching, occasionally weighing in on football matters through the media. Yet now, over a decade later, he may be edging closer to a return.
Reacting to the rumours, Domenech admitted the possibility has sparked his interest. “I don’t know anything, but it’s tempting,” he told the press. While not a definitive confirmation, the remark has only fuelled speculation. His response, laced with ambiguity and a hint of irony, evoked a typically cautious tone—neither a firm denial nor a clear affirmation.
The story gains additional intrigue in light of Domenech’s recent decision to turn down the role of Tunisia national team manager. In an interview, he revealed he had seriously considered the opportunity but ultimately backed away due to the lack of autonomy he would have been afforded.
“I hesitated until the last moment,” he said. “It was a good project, but I wanted to do it under conditions I could control. I couldn’t choose my assistant, and that was a problem. I didn’t want to just take charge without being able to work with a trusted staff.”
Domenech also highlighted the logistical and scouting challenges of managing an African national team, especially given the geographical spread of players and the necessity of following local competitions. “They have a good team, good players. It was tempting, but it wasn’t the right time,” he concluded.
The former national team boss, who titled his autobiography “Tout Seul” (“All Alone”), acknowledged that working abroad without his own support staff would be too isolating and limiting. It’s a revealing insight into the kind of environment Domenech would require for a successful return—one where he has control and clarity.
Should FC Lorient pursue Domenech seriously, it would represent a major gamble as well as a high-profile statement. Whether this is the beginning of a genuine coaching comeback or just the rumour of the day, one thing is clear: Raymond Domenech, after years in the shadows, is once again in the conversation.
