Struggling Ligue 1 club Paris FC hires Kombouaré as coach after firing Gilli

By Canadian Press on February 22, 2026.

PARIS (AP) — Struggling Ligue 1 club Paris FC quickly hired Antoine Kombouaré as its new coach after firing Stéphane Gilli earlier Sunday.

Paris FC announced Kombouaré’s arrival in a statement, without saying how long he has signed for. The 62-year-old Kombouaré previously had spells in charge of Paris Saint-Germain, Lens and Nantes.

Gilli had been in charge of Paris FC since 2023 and helped it win promotion last season. His other high point was knocking PSG out of the French Cup in January.

“The club would like to warmly thank Stéphane Gilli for his commitment, professionalism and all the work he accomplished during his time,” Paris FC posted on X.

Paris FC was taken over late last year by France’s richest family, the Arnaults of luxury empire LVMH, but the club is languishing in 15th place in Ligue 1 with 11 rounds left.

Four years ago, Kombouaré saved Nantes from relegation and won the French Cup in the same season.

“We are delighted to welcome Antoine Kombouaré to the club,” Paris FC owner Antoine Arnault said. “His background and solid experience in Ligue 1 will be invaluable assets.”

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The Associated Press

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