In the past few days it was rumoured that Thierry Henry would be leaving Club de Foot Montréal before the MLS 2021 season begun. The speculation was confirmed after the club officially announced that the French would be stepping out of his duties as head coach.
Henry has been linked with a possible move to English second-tier club Bournemouth, although Jonathan Woodgate was already confirmed at the role until the end of season. However, the former world-class striker stated that the decision of quitting the Montreal job was due to family reasons.
Having to face the MLS kickoff in almost seven weeks, CF Montreal has to hire a new head coach for the 8th time in 10 years in the league. Despite Henry just left the club and Olivier Renard, club's sporting director, refused to give names yet, there are some potential candidates to take the job. Check out who may land at Montreal to become the head coach.
Wilfried Nancy
The first team assistant coach that will be the caretaker boss for the moment is one logical possible replacement for Henry. Having worked in Montreal for several years with the academy, at first, until being promoted to higher positions, he may be a good candidate. He would be ready to start working as soon as possible, although it would mean his first team at the role.
Gabriel Batistuta
Former Argentine international striker, an idol for many soccer fans during the 90s, Batigol has been linked with a move to Montreal since Henry's exit rumours started to spread. Bati lacks experience at the position, but he can provide a lot of knowledge from his times as a world-class goalscorer at the highest level. Renard denied having any contact with him or his agent, but his name is one possibility for the vacant job.
Mauro Biello
The current Canada Men's national team assistant's return to Montreal may be another possibility for the role. Under Biello the team had such a good run in 2015 when serving as interim coach that he was confirmed permanently for the position. He didn't left under the same circumstances as the club started to struggle, but a second chance for him can't be dismissed.
Laurent Ciman
The Belgian recently appointed as an assistant coach may be one to consider as a potential candidate. Renard, in a press conference alongside Kevin Gilmore, CF Montreal's CEO and President, also stated that this wasn't a big possibility as they brought Ciman in to be assistant, but he may end up with the role if no other candidates are more attractive.
