Jean-Louis Gasset played a significant role in convincing Wahbi Khazri to join AS Saint-Étienne last summer. At the time, the Tunisian international had several options on the table, with interest coming from different clubs. However, it was ultimately the project presented by Gasset that tipped the balance. The French coach’s vision, trust, and clear plan for the team persuaded Khazri to commit to Les Verts, where he quickly became one of the side’s most influential players.
Khazri’s arrival proved to be a successful move for both player and club. Over the course of the season, he established himself as a key figure in Saint-Étienne’s attack, contributing goals, creativity, and leadership. His performances made him one of the faces of the team’s revival, and he built a strong relationship with Gasset, who gave him an important role and considerable freedom on the pitch. That bond between coach and player was widely seen as one of the pillars of Khazri’s successful adaptation to life at the club.
However, according to L’Équipe, the recent decision by Jean-Louis Gasset to leave AS Saint-Étienne has introduced an element of uncertainty into Khazri’s future. The departure of the man who convinced him to sign has reportedly unsettled the Tunisian midfielder. For a player who chose the club largely because of the coach’s project, this change at the top represents a major shift and has naturally led him to reassess his situation.
The former Bastia and Sunderland player is said to have been disappointed by Gasset’s exit. While Khazri remains under contract, he is reportedly reluctant to make any immediate commitments about his long-term future at the club. Instead, he prefers to wait and see how the sporting direction evolves. The appointment of the next head coach is expected to be decisive, not only for the club’s broader project but also for Khazri personally.
According to the same source, Khazri wants to understand the ideas, ambitions, and tactical vision of the incoming coach before taking any decision. He is keen to know whether the new manager will build around him, what role he would be expected to play, and whether the club’s objectives match his own ambitions. Only once these questions are answered will he seriously consider whether to continue his adventure in the Forez or explore other opportunities.
Gasset’s departure has therefore created a period of reflection for one of Saint-Étienne’s most important players. While there is no indication yet of an imminent exit, the situation underlines how closely a player’s commitment can be tied to a coach’s presence and project. For AS Saint-Étienne, reassuring Khazri and other key figures will be one of the priorities of the coming weeks, as the club looks to ensure continuity and stability ahead of the new season.
