France soccer legend Patrick Vieira has parted ways with Strasbourg, a top-tier club owned by the United States. The club, which shares ownership with Chelsea, announced that Vieira has left by mutual agreement. This decision comes just a month before the Ligue 1 season kicks off. Vieira was only one year into his three-year contract with the team.
During his time at Strasbourg, Vieira led the team to a 13th-place finish in the 18-team league. However, the season was marred by fan protests against the club’s ownership structure, which involves multiple clubs, including Chelsea. Despite his departure, the club expressed that Vieira will always be welcomed back and that they will soon announce a new coach to fill his position.
Vieira has an extensive coaching background, having managed teams such as Nice, Crystal Palace, and New York City FC. Prior to his coaching career, he also worked with youth teams at Manchester City, which shares ownership with New York City FC. In addition to his club coaching experience, Vieira has been linked to the role of head coach for the United States men’s national team. Reports suggest that he was considered for the position when it was vacant in 2023 and had been in contact with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) regarding the role.
As a former player, Vieira achieved success both domestically and internationally. He won World Cup and European Championship titles with France, as well as three English Premier League titles with Arsenal. During his time at Arsenal, he was a key member of the famous “Invincibles” team that went unbeaten during the 2003-04 season.
While Vieira’s future coaching prospects remain uncertain, his name continues to be linked with various opportunities in the soccer world. Whether he takes on a new coaching role or decides to explore other avenues within the sport, his legacy as a player and coach is firmly established in the world of soccer.