Lens Sporting Director Addresses Pierre Sage's Crystal Palace Move
Pierre Sage, who led RC Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and a Coupe de France win, has been confirmed as the new manager for Crystal Palace. Lens sporting director Benjamin Parrot stated there is "no acrimony, no anger" regarding Sage's departure, emphasizing that managing managerial changes is part of modern football. Parrot expressed no regrets over not retaining Sage and wished him well for his future endeavors. Dino Toppmoller, formerly of Eintracht Frankfurt, has been appointed as Sage's replacement to lead Lens into their upcoming UEFA Champions League campaign.
Pierre Sage has officially been confirmed as Crystal Palace's new manager, following a highly successful single season with RC Lens. During his tenure, Sage guided Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and secured the Coupe de France title.
Despite this surprising departure as Lens prepares to host UEFA Champions League football, the club's sporting director, Benjamin Parrot, stated there was "no acrimony, no anger" towards Sage. Parrot highlighted that managing offers, potential departures, and arrivals is a daily reality in modern football, now extending beyond just players to include managers.
Parrot also confirmed there were no "regrets" regarding the financial effort made to retain Sage. He expressed best wishes for Sage's future and acknowledged his achievements, stating, "We won’t forget what he achieved. We will still be positive about this magnificent season and now it’s time for what comes next."
Lens, known as Les Sang et Or, has appointed German manager Dino Toppmoller as Sage's successor. Toppmoller, previously with Eintracht Frankfurt, will now lead the club in their upcoming European campaign.
(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)
