Pierre Sager, Ligue 1's Coach of the Year, has officially taken charge of Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace Football Club has announced the official appointment of French coach Pierre Sage as the team's new head coach, with the two parties signing a three-year contract.

The 47-year-old Sager managed Lens in Ligue 1 last season, leading the team to their first-ever French Cup title and securing a Champions League spot. Under his guidance, Lens improved their league points by 18 points in a single season, ultimately finishing with an exceptionally high win rate of 67.5% across all competitions. He himself was named Ligue 1 Coach of the Year.

Previously in November 2023, Sager took over as interim manager of Lyon, who were at the bottom of Ligue 1 at the time. He then won 15 out of 20 league matches, helping the team not only avoid relegation and qualify for the Europa League, but also reach the French Cup final.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish said: "Pierre had a successful season at Lens, winning the title and finishing second in Ligue 1. With the team about to start a new round of European competitions after their success at Leipzig, I believe he will give his all to win more honors."

In an interview, Sager said: "It's been fantastic to come to Crystal Palace. Former manager Oliver Glasner achieved some amazing things, and now I have to do the same. The momentum here is very positive, and we hope to continue our winning streak in this new project."

“We want to see the fans smiling and proud of the team and club. In England, once you fall in love with a club, it's for life, and we will fight alongside the fans.”

Image source: Internet/Crystal Palace official website