Gerard Houllier

Gerard Houllier led Paris Saint-Germain to their first French title in the 1985-86 season, significantly raising his profile within French football. Prior to this, he guided French amateur club Nœux-les-Mines to promotion during his tenure from 1976 to 1982. In 1982, he moved to Lens, where he achieved further promotion for the club and secured qualification for the UEFA Cup. Following his success with Paris Saint-Germain, Houllier continued to shape French football at various levels.

Houllier’s association with the French national team commenced in 1988 as technical director and assistant to Michel Platini. He then served as the national team manager from 1992 to 1993, overseeing 12 matches. Demonstrating a commitment to youth development, he coached France’s U18 team from 1994 to 1996, leading them to victory in the UEFA European Under-18 Championship in 1996. He subsequently coached the France U20 team from 1996 to 1997, a period during which he nurtured future World Cup winners including David Trezeguet and Thierry Henry.

He then managed Lyon from 2005 to 2007, securing two consecutive Ligue 1 titles (2005-06, 2006-07) and two Trophée des Champions (2005, 2006). His subsequent role as manager of Aston Villa from 2010 to 2011 further solidified his reputation. Following his club coaching career, Houllier transitioned into significant administrative roles, serving as head of global football for Red Bull from 2012 to 2020. In 2020, he further contributed to the sport as technical director for the prominent women’s football clubs Lyon Féminin and OL Reign, extending his distinguished career in football leadership and development.