Blanc Confirmed to be Next France Coach; France Fans Rejoice

May 16th, 2010 | by: Sarah | View Comments

The day after Blanc’s final game as the coach of Bordeaux, the club released an official notice confirming Blanc’s departure and his tenure as the France coach after South Africa (pictured below).  While this isn’t really a surprise since Blanc’s “good friend” and former Bleus 98 teammate, Didier Deschamps, practically spilled the beans earlier this week in an interview with L’Equipe.

Blanc, himself, refused to confirm on his acceptance of the position before Bordeaux finished its final workout session which took place on Sunday morning.  Bordeaux, who have Blanc officially contracted to work with them until June 2011, are expected to be compensated by the French Football Federation for releasing Blanc from his contract.  

The announcement of Domenech’s successor by the FFF has raised eyebrows among fans and the current Les Bleus team.  The French captain, Thierry Henry, has been very open in his distaste for this announcement being made before the World Cup.  But, the FFF, unsurprisingly, refused to listen to public opinion and insisted the announcement take place.

Blanc’s reign will not begin until after the South Africa World Cup when Domenech’s contract with the FFF runs out.  And while France fans are optimistic, Blanc will be joining the Bleus on a bit of a sad note in his career.  Bordeaux, which he led to a historic double league and cup title last year, has not faired nearly as well this year- not even qualifying for the Europa League.  The club, in its statement shifted part of the responsibility for the club’s failures this season on the FFF, blaming

“members of the FFF” for “prejudicial statements”which, according to the club, “undoubtedly affected (his) end of season (…) and beyond, future seasons. “

In a statement, the FFF President Escalettes said that he was “delighted” in the “declaration of interest” from Blanc and invoked Blanc’s experience and history with Les Bleus.

“The sporting past, personality, charisma of Laurent Blanc fit the profile-type of coach that the FFF National Research want after the World Cup in South Africa.”

Regardless of his last season at Bordeaux this season, France has been looking forward to Blanc’s confirmation nearly as much as they are looking forward to Domenech leaving the post.  The appointment of Blanc should be formalized by the FFF by May 20 (Federal Council) or May 29 (general meeting).