The AS Saint-Étienne continues its profound transformation with a significant strengthening of its management team, notably thanks to the arrival of professionals from England. This strategy, hailed by Eirik Horneland, the coach, is a key step in preparing for the 2025-2026 season and aims to propel the club to League 1. While the new recruits in the field are expected later, the club has already strengthened its behind-the-scenes teams with the integration of Calum Daley as second physical preparer and, more importantly, Donough Holohan, former Manchester City executive, as Director of Performance. This restructuring, led by Kilmer Sports Ventures, is explicitly designed to support the Eirik Horneland sports project, which has expressed its enthusiasm for the expertise and experience of these new members.

The arrival of Donough Holohan, a leading figure with 65 years of experience including 13 years at Manchester City, is particularly significant. It will take charge of the performance cell, thus ensuring an essential link between medical and sporting aspects. This appointment is seen as a major reinforcement that will enable the team to achieve its ambitious goals. In addition, DaviTivey, an individual preparation specialist, will work in collaboration with Calum Daley, ensuring rigorous physical monitoring of players throughout the season. All these reinforcements are part of a global project initiated by Ivan Gazidis and Kilmer Sports, aimed at reviving ASSE’s ambitions and professionalizing the staff.

This new orientation allows Eirik Horneland to focus fully on the sports aspects of the team, a task he describes as demanding. The presence of a competent staff is considered fundamental to building a successful team and aiming higher. After a year of evaluation, the club now focuses on action, improving methods and clarifying its vision. The 2025-2026 season is therefore set to be a pivotal year for AS Saint-Étienne, where the club is committed to laying the foundations for lasting success.