Jean-Louis Gasset : “I've made the choice between family and passion"

A Thoughtful Decision

"I’ve decided to return home because my mission is completed. This mission was completed in two stages. After the first six months, when we had to bring the club out of a delicate situation, I had already asked myself the question because the mission that had been set for me was accomplished. But the last match against Lille brought me back. We had almost qualified for the Europa League after having completed a great undefeated streak. Being cheered for by these fans pushed me to remain for an additional year to bring Saint-Étienne to the Europa League. Seeing these people who cheer for you, it’s incredible. This second mission wasn’t easy but we stayed on course with 15 professional players and the youths from the Gambardella Cup. Despite the physical snags, the VAR and a reduced team, we finished in fourth place and qualified for the Europa League. In the championship, only the team ranked fourth qualified for the UEFA Europa League. My objective was achieved and the second mission is complete. I’m finishing feeling exhausted.”

A family choice but… difficult

"I no longer have any energy. I need rest, space and to see my family. No one can fight against my family. The pressure in Saint-Étienne is very strong. Throughout its history, ASSE is a club that everyone wants to see among the greatest teams of the championship. I think that by finishing fourth we had an excellent season but my decision is made. When you arrive at a mature age, you have to choose what your priorities are. Between my family and my passion, I’ve chosen my family. Despite everything, this decision is difficult to announce because it’s emotional. Saturday, after the match, I didn’t want to attract attention to a personal situation that would have weighed on a magnificent moment that we were experiencing. This victory lap in front of the grandstands full of happy people was simply magical. Today, I see people who were touched and who are asking me to stay but in a little bit, when I return home I’ll be able to tell myself that I made them happy and proud. When you’re in the middle of the lawn facing a kop, it’s completely thrilling."

In Saint-Étienne like in Montpellier

"I had already made such a decision with Louis and Laurent Nicollin when I trained in Montpellier. They telephoned me while I was suffering during a period of mourning. I wasn’t fit to train. I completed this mission because it was my club. After five months and despite the two-year contract that I had left, I said “I’m stopping”. I spent the whole summer with my family and my grandchildren in the pool. I needed a few months to recharge, until the President Roland Romeyer called me to come to Saint-Étienne. The older you become, the more time you need in order to recuperate. I read that people did not get along with Président Roland Romeyer, but our relationship was normal with a bit of understandable friction like in all the clubs. It’s the same everywhere. The presidents know the spending limits and coaches like me only think of the field. It’s all about finding a balance between means and what is achievable.”

An Unforgettable, Collective Adventure

"I thank my players. They’re gladiators, men above all. I also thank Ghislain Printant, Julien Sablé, Fabrice Grange, the entire staff. I also thank these fans who moved us deeply. When you’re in the tribunes, it’s a strong feeling when you’re in the middle, on the lawn, you have goosebumps. It’s extraordinary! These moments will remain etched in our memory. Thanks to all the stakeholders, we put Saint-Étienne where it should be.”