Le Mans set for Brazilian-led reboot as Outfield take control and target Ligue one within three to four years | OneFootball

Brazilian fund Outfield has become the majority shareholder at Le Mans, with president Thierry Gomez staying in post. The new backers aim to push the Ligue two club towards a Ligue one return within three to four years.

According to L'Équipe, Outfield arrived last summer and now holds the controlling stake, while Gomez also remains a minority shareholder.

Several million euros are to be invested, with no precise figure disclosed, to buy the Pincenardière training centre and reinforce football operations. The club is seeking to regain academy accreditation lost in 2013 after bankruptcy, a process already under way for next season.

Outfield co-founder Pedro Oliveira highlights Le Mans’ record of developing talents such as Didier Drogba and Gervinho, and says they want to reconnect with that heritage.

Gomez says survival is almost assured with 39 points, even if not yet mathematical. Fifth in Ligue two and holding the final play-off place, Oliveira believes Patrick Videira’s side will fight to the end for at least a berth.

He adds that investment will bring the right players at the right time, while stressing development will rest on structure and identity, plus data and scouting, not just transfer fees.

Gomez keeps day-to-day control but shares decision-making, and says he is comfortable defending and sharing his ideas. Outfield considers his continued role essential, citing his presence as a reason to advance the project.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has joined the investors alongside Novak Djokovic, Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen. The project should also enable synergies with Coritiba, a Brazilian top-flight club managed by Outfield and currently ninth.

Source: L'Équipe