Southampton have confirmed they have appointed Claude Puel as their new manager. The 54-year-old Frenchman has agreed to a three-year deal with the south coast club, starting from July 1. He will replace Ronald Koeman as the Saints' boss, who finished in the sixth spot, behind Manchester United, under the Dutchman's guidance.
Koeman left St Mary's Stadium and took charge as Everton manager after the Merseyside club relieved Roberto Martinez from his duties following a disappointing campaign under the former Wigan Athletic manager's guidance. Everton finished 11th.
Puel, will now be the man in charge at Southampton and they will be hoping he can help them in finishing in top four. Following his arrival, there have been few changes made to his backroom staff.
A statement on Southampton's official website read, "Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Claude Puel as its new First Team Manager."
"The 54-year-old, who has agreed to a three-year contract with Saints, takes charge ahead of the first team’s return to training on 1st July. The appointment of Puel follows an extensive search for the right manager to continue the club’s progression in recent years.
"Puel will be joined at Southampton by Eric Black, who has been appointed Assistant First Team Manager, and Pascal Plancque, who will become the club’s First Team Assistant Coach.
"Dave Watson has signed a new deal with the club to remain as part of Puel’s backroom staff, while Sammy Lee has departed. The club would like to thank Sammy for his efforts during his time at St Mary’s."
Southampton executive director of football Les Reed explain how diligent and meticulous it was for the club in finding Koeman's successor.
“The process to appoint a new First Team Manager has been diligent and meticulous. In order to ensure we appointed a manager who would meet our needs as a club, feedback from the dressing room, as well as taking account of our culture, vision and values, was critical in drawing up our criteria for the appointment," Reed explained.
“As the process eliminated a number of excellent candidates, Claude clearly came out on top of a very impressive shortlist. We have not only got the best man, but the right coaching team to support him."
