Ian Cathro appointed head coach of AS Saint-Étienne

Ian Cathro has been appointed head coach of AS Saint-Étienne. The Scot signs a contract that runs until 2028 after two successful seasons with Estoril in Portugal's Primeira Liga.

AS Saint-Étienne, ten-time French champions, were relegated to Ligue 2 in the 2024-25 season. They lost the previous season's play-off final to Nice. Former boss Philippe Montanier departed after his short-term deal expired.

Cathro said the club carries high expectations and a special responsibility to its supporters. He added that his aim is to build a team that knows its purpose, works with intensity, helps players progress and moves forward with courage. He described the club's energy and his role in turning it into hard work, high standards and on‑pitch progress.

Cathro, 39, began his coaching career in Dundee, developing Ryan Gauld and John Souttar at Dundee United's academy. He then served as Nuno Espirito Santo's assistant at Rio Ave before following the Portuguese manager to Valencia. Subsequent roles saw him work under Steve McLaren and Rafael Benitez at Newcastle United. A seven‑month spell as Heart of Midlothian head coach in 2017 ended after the team failed to advance from the League Cup group stage. He later rejoined Nuno at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur and Al-Ittihad before returning to a head‑coach role with Estoril in summer 2024. At Estoril he guided the side to an eighth‑place finish in the Primeira Liga and a tenth place the following season, playing attractive football.

President Ivan Gazidis praised Cathro's unconventional career path and his experience in coaching, player development and diverse football cultures. Gazidis said the club values Cathro's ability to give a clear direction, aid player progress and create a demanding environment. He added that Estoril demonstrated Cathro's capacity to move a club forward with method, identity and stability, which AS Saint-Étienne wants to establish.