Sir Jim Ratcliffe officially parts way with head coach ahead of 2026/27 season
Image Credits: Imago Images
Manchester United’s ownership group INEOS continues to have influence across European football.
Their involvement at OGC Nice is once again making headlines following major changes.
While United remain focused on the transfer window, developments at one of INEOS’ sister clubs have underlined the ongoing instability within their wider football network.
Attention now shifts to the French Riviera, where OGC Nice have confirmed, via their website, the departure of their head coach Claude Puel.
Puel’s exit comes after a turbulent spell in charge, having been brought in during a difficult period to steady a struggling side.
He replaced Franck Haise in December when Nice were in crisis, eventually overseeing a dramatic fight for survival in Ligue 1.
The club’s safety was secured on the final day after a crucial 4-1 victory over AS Saint-Etienne, but it was not enough to secure his long-term future.
His contract has now expired and will not be renewed, bringing an end to his short stint at the helm.
Nice also confirmed stability at board level, with Maurice Cohen remaining as club president after joining alongside Jean-Pierre Rivere in a leadership reshuffle.
Rivere will now move into a new role as president of the OGC Nice endowment fund.
In a club statement, Nice and INEOS paid tribute to Puel’s contribution during a challenging period.
“Claude Puel has now reached the conclusion of his mission as Head Coach of the first team.
“INEOS and OGC Nice would like to express their sincere gratitude for the work he has carried out over the past several months.
“Arriving during a particularly difficult period, he played a key role in helping the club avoid relegation and in creating more favourable conditions for the future.”
The situation also comes amid wider uncertainty around ownership at Nice, with American investors recently withdrawing from a proposed deal.
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