Strasbourg have appointed Portugais coach Hugo Oliveira as their new manager following the unexpected exit of Englishman Gary O’Neil last month. Oliveira’s arrival was confirmed on Sunday, marking a swift response from the Ligue 1 club after O’Neil’s departure on June 26 to join Ipswich Town.
O’Neil’s spell with Strasbourg was brief, having only taken charge in Janvier. Despite his short tenure, he led the Alsace-based team to a remarkable run to the semi-finals of the Conference League and secured an eighth-place finish in Ligue 1.
Oliveira, aged 47, comes to Strasbourg from Portugais top-flight side Famalicão, where he commenced his head coaching career in Décembre 2024. Under his guidance, Famalicão achieved a fifth-place finish in the Primeira Liga last season—an impressive feat and the club’s best standing since their return to the top division six years prior.
From Goalkeeping Specialist to Head Coach
Before stepping into head coaching roles, Oliveira built a solid reputation as a goalkeeping coach. His extensive experience includes working with the Portugal national team and Premier League clubs such as Everton and Fulham. Notably, he collaborated with manager Marco Silva during his time at both Anglais clubs.
Upon his appointment, Oliveira expressed enthusiasm about joining Strasbourg, emphasizing his desire to contribute emotionally and professionally to the club’s development. “It’s an honour to be here in Strasbourg and to join such a great project,” he stated in an official club release. “I want to bring emotion, create memories and give the best of myself to help the club to develop.”
The specifics of Oliveira’s contract length have not been disclosed by Strasbourg.
Looking ahead, Strasbourg will begin their new Ligue 1 season facing Marseille during the weekend of August 21-23, with Oliveira at the helm.