Pierre Sage and RC Lens, why the split became inevitable | OneFootball

Pierre Sage and RC Lens agreed on Tuesday night to part after one season, the coach having phoned the board to confirm his choice. According to L'Équipe, the split had become unavoidable in recent days despite his three-year deal signed last summer.

The board had sensed his doubts before the campaign ended, even as plans for next season progressed. The rupture follows a remarkable year with direct Champions League entry and, on 22 May, the club's first Coupe de France.

In media interviews, Sage said his head was at Lens but he was being courted and needed to take stock. He feared a second season might be less accomplished and was attracted by greater resources elsewhere, comments that jarred internally.

On 23 May Joseph Oughourlian said he expected Sage to stay and underlined the club would not break its wage structure. Lens later offered improved terms within Ligue 1's 10th budget, but the coach preferred an amicable separation.

The exit is agreed in principle and now needs formalising. With two years left, Lens intend to be uncompromising with any club seeking to hire him.

Crystal Palace are favourites, with interest also from Saudi Arabia. Recent Conference League winners, the Eagles have made him their top choice to replace Oliver Glasner, who is expected at AC Milan, and could treble or quadruple his €100,000 gross monthly salary, a move that fits his Premier League ambitions.

The club says it is serene about the future, but supporters are sickened and want clarity.

Source: L'Équipe