French club RC Lens announced the sacking of head coach Yannick Cahuzac on Tuesday, less than seven days after the side were routed 9‑1 by Como in the UEFA Champions League. The decision was confirmed by a source close to the club and follows a series of disappointing performances in domestic and European competitions.
What triggered the dismissal?
Cahuzac, who took charge in mid‑September after the abrupt exit of Dino Toppmöller, oversaw only three victories in nine matches across all tournaments. His tenure included the humiliating 9‑1 loss to Como on Wednesday and a 2‑1 defeat to Marseille at Stade Bollaert‑Delelis on Sunday, leaving Lens in 11th place in Ligue 1.
Key facts from the club's statements
- The 9‑1 defeat matched the joint‑record for the largest margin in modern Champions League history.
- Lens have yet to earn a single point in Europe under Cahuzac, having also fallen to Sporting Lisbon and Club Brugge.
- Chairman Joseph Oughourlian described the performance at Bollaert as "unacceptable" and said the words "never again" were painted on the changing‑room walls.
- Cahuzac admitted after the Marseille game that the squad’s confidence had been severely damaged and that several gaps remained in the team.
Background on recent managerial changes
Cahuzac succeeded German coach Dino Toppmöller, who left the club after just four Ligue 1 matchdays. Prior to this season, Lens enjoyed a successful campaign under current Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage, winning the French Cup and finishing second in the league behind Paris Saint‑Germain.
What lies ahead for Lens?
The club now faces the task of appointing a new manager capable of restoring morale and improving results both domestically and in Europe. With the season well underway, the board has signalled a desire for immediate stability and a return to competitive form.