Despite warmer ties with Létang, Genesio non-committal on Lille extension | OneFootball

Bruno Genesio’s future at Lille remains undecided, with his deal expiring at the end of the season, despite a thaw in relations with president Olivier Létang, according to L'Équipe. The club are fifth in Ligue 1.

A year ago, professional tensions between the pair, notably over recruitment, made a split possible, yet the coach chose to stay. Their relationship has since calmed, and Létang offered strong support when Genesio faced a personal issue.

Even after five defeats in all competitions between 3 and 25 January, Létang continued to praise his work, signalling backing in difficult moments. Whether that influences any extension remains unclear, and the sporting context has been deteriorating.

Early in January, Genesio said there had been no talks over a new deal. He stressed his focus on the present and indicated that staying would depend on conditions, with certain points needing clarity to decide alongside his president at the end of the season.

By mid-January, Létang stated he wanted Genesio to extend but underlined that the choice rests with the coach. He cited resilience through four managers in five years and a rise from 109th to 26th in Europe, adding he would like Genesio to be in charge in August while not being the sole decision-maker.

Transfer windows have exposed differing priorities, with Genesio preferring more experienced profiles and Létang favouring prospects that can be sold to sustain the club. Late-January arrivals Gaëtan Perrin and Noah Edjouma may have narrowed the gap, yet injuries leave the squad fragile against Ligue 1’s top sides.

For now, Genesio’s task is to lift Lille’s form rather than settle his future. Létang previously struck an upbeat tone over Paulo Fonseca before his near-certain exit, so a similar outcome cannot be excluded. Genesio is said to be capable of stepping away, though his profile could attract suitors.

Source: L'Équipe