Michel Der Zakarian set for Nantes return | OneFootball

Following their relegation to Ligue 2, FC Nantes are in the market for a new manager. The Loire club burned through three last season. They began the campaign with Luis Castro, who departed before Christmas. His record was mixed but he then went on to perform excellently at Levante. 

He was replaced by Ahmed Kantari, who struggled in the role and by the spring, he was gone and replaced by Vahid Halilhodzic. By the time he arrived, it was already too late to save the club, Halilhodzic frequently repeated. At 73 years old, he was never going to remain in the post. 

However, L’Équipe understands that his successor has now been found, and as was the case with Halilhodzic, it is another returning face. As per the publication, an agreement between Nantes and Michel Der Zakarian, who has already managed the club on two occasions, is close. 

Der Zakarian has been out of work since leaving SM Caen in June 2025.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle