Philippe Montanier to leave Sociedad for France’s Rennes

PARIS - Reuters

French coach Philippe Montanier (2L) was at the helm of Real Sociedad’s successful La Liga run this season. AFP photo

Stade Rennes has appointed Philippe Montanier as their coach for next season after the Frenchman turned down a contract extension with Real Sociedad, the Ligue 1 club said yesterday.

The 48-year-old Montanier will replace Frederic Antonetti, who said he was stepping down after four seasons in Rennes.

“He will join the first team for the return to training scheduled on July 1,” Stade Rennes said on their website, without disclosing any detail about the deal.

Rennes, who lost the League Cup final to St Etienne last month, are 11th in the Ligue 1 table. 

Sociedad had earlier announced the Frenchman’s departure following his refusal to extend his contract at the club he joined two years ago from French side Valenciennes.

Sociedad is fourth in La Liga and close to securing a place in Champions League qualifying for next season.

It said it would focus on its remaining two games, at home to Real Madrid on Sunday and at Deportivo La Coruna the following weekend, before turning their attention to finding Montanier’s successor.

“For that reason, Real Sociedad will make an announcement on this issue after the two remaining games,” the club said on their website.