New Strasbourg manager Gary O'Neil has immediately set his sights on securing two pieces of silverware this season, following a spectacular debut victory in the French Cup.
A Perfect Start in the Cup
O'Neil, who was appointed to replace the Chelsea-bound Liam Rosenior just days ago, oversaw a dominant 6-0 win against fourth-tier side Avranches. The match, played on Saturday, saw goals from Julio Enciso (2), Joaquín Panichelli, Diego Moreira, Martial Godo, and Sébastien Nanasi.
"It was a perfect start, even if it was against an amateur side," said O'Neil, a self-confessed Millwall fan. He fielded the same starting eleven that played in Rosenior's final game against Nice the previous weekend, praising the players' focus and professionalism during a whirlwind week.
Ambitious Targets for the Season
Despite the comfortable win, O'Neil's ambitions extend far beyond a single cup tie. He has publicly declared his intention to chase major honours in his first campaign at the Ligue 1 club.
"We want to win the Coupe de France and the UEFA Europa Conference League, and finish as high as possible in the league," O'Neil stated boldly. His new team are currently seventh in Ligue 1 and topped their Conference League group ahead of Crystal Palace and Aberdeen.
Navigating Fan Discontent and Derby Pressure
The English manager's arrival comes at a sensitive time for the Alsace-based club. Strasbourg supporters have been furious about Rosenior's departure to Chelsea, a club under the same BlueCo ownership, and a protest is planned for their next home game—a derby against Metz on Sunday, January 18.
O'Neil, who is from south-east London, made a point of thanking the travelling fans after the Avranches match. "I understand them because I know what it's like to love a club more than anything," he said, referencing his childhood support for Millwall. "We wanted to show that we will give everything for them."
The 41-year-old former Bournemouth and Wolves boss will hope his winning start and clear ambition can help win over a disgruntled fanbase as he embarks on a challenging quest for trophies.
