The first night of Georgia’s new Nations League campaign ended with a defeat, and by Saturday morning Willy Sagnol’s four-year reign was over. The former France and Bayern Munich right-back has been dismissed after Georgia lost 1-0 to Northern Ireland.
Key takeaways
- Willy Sagnol was removed as Georgia head coach on Saturday.
- The decision followed Friday’s 1-0 Nations League loss to Northern Ireland.
- Sagnol had been in charge of the Georgian national side since February 2021.
- He managed Georgia in 57 matches and led the country to Euro 2024.
- Former under-21 coach Ramaz Svanadze has been appointed until the end of 2028.
A historic Euro run remembered
Georgia’s federation thanked Sagnol for his contribution, paying tribute to the “emotions” shared during what it described as a historic journey with the national team.
The defining achievement of his spell was qualification for Euro 2024, Georgia’s first appearance at a major international tournament. Their campaign ended in the last 16, but the qualification itself marked a landmark moment for the country.
Sagnol, 49, took over in February 2021. The former Bayern Munich defender and France international leaves after 57 games at the helm.
Svanadze steps up from the under-21s
Ramaz Svanadze will take charge of the senior side following Sagnol’s departure. He arrives from Georgia’s under-21 setup and has signed a contract running through to the end of 2028.
The immediate task is to restore momentum after the opening setback against Northern Ireland and guide Georgia through the rest of their 2027 Nations League campaign.
