Done Deal: Senegal legend appointed Ligue 1 club coach
02/01/2025 04:22 AM
Senegal legend Habib Beye has been appointed as the new head coach of French Ligue 1 club Stade Rennais.
The retired right-back will be in charge of Rennes until the end of the season, with predefined terms for a one-season extension.
The 2023/24 season saw Beye lead Red Star to promotion to Ligue 2 for the first time in six years, and then allowed his contract to expire in June 2024.
“I’ve worked hard and built myself up to reach the very highest level, and Stade Rennais represents the very highest level,” Beye said.
“I have to show my ability and my skills to manage this club. I think the directors have been convinced. It’s a process and a way of building a man after my career as a player.
“My role as a consultant? It had no impact on my decision. In that role, I was able to talk to players and coaches to build up my confidence, and at the same time I got my qualifications. I took my time, with humility, so as not to rush things. I got my hands dirty with my staff in the National League.”
Born and raised in France, Beye represented the Senegal national team, earning 45 caps between 2001 and 2008.
He was part of the Senegal squads at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2002 (runners-up), 2004, 2006 (semi-finalists) and 2008, as well as a quarter-finalist at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
