Sunderland appoint Régis Le Bris as new head coach on three-year deal
Sunderland have ended their long search for a new permanent manager by naming Frenchman Régis Le Bris as head coach.
Le Bris has signed a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light, having left his position at relegated Ligue 1 side Lorient. The 48-year-old will begin work on 1 July and will have just a few weeks to prepare for the Championship season.
Sunderland have been without a permanent manager since they sacked Michael Beale in February after just two months in charge. Mike Dodds was in caretaker charge for the rest of the campaign but two wins in the final 15 games saw them finish 16th.
Le Bris said on the club’s official website: “I am honoured to be joining Sunderland and look forward to immersing myself in the culture of the club and the city. I believe the best way to understand and appreciate what makes a club unique is to connect with the people who embody its spirit: the supporters, the community and all those who contribute to its character.
“All coaches talk about their enthusiasm and vision when they start a new role. I’m certainly here to pass on my energy and my convictions, but also to listen and learn. The history of this club is very strong, and this is a unique opportunity to be part of that legacy. I recognise the potential of our team, a group that has seen both successes and more difficult times.
“Our journey together has only just begun, and I am ambitious about what we can achieve. I want us to bring joy to our fans, not only through results, but also through our style of play, and I’m convinced that with commitment and hard work, we can write an exciting new chapter.”
Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman, said: “We are delighted to have attracted someone of Regis’ calibre to Sunderland. He is a talented coach, who is thoughtful and detailed in his approach and values strong relationships with players and staff.”
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After working his way up at Lorient, he spent two years in charge of the first team, achieving their highest top-flight finish in Ligue 1 before overseeing relegation to Ligue 2 last season.