Lausanne-Sport Parts Ways With Manager Luka Elsner
The Swiss club dismissed the head coach following a difficult start to the season under the ownership of INEOS.
FC Lausanne-Sport announced on Tuesday that it has parted ways with head coach Luka Elsner. The decision comes after a challenging start to the season that left the team at the bottom of the Swiss Super League standings.
Elsner, 44, took control of the club on June 1. During his five-month tenure, he managed the team through 12 league matches, suffering eight losses, and oversaw two domestic cup fixtures. The club described the departure as a mutual agreement reached after extensive discussions regarding the team's current sporting situation.
In an official statement, the club expressed appreciation for the professionalism and commitment Elsner displayed during his time in charge. The organization noted that his methodological approach and high standards contributed to the development of the coaching staff, even as results on the pitch fell short of expectations.
The change in leadership occurs as INEOS, the chemical group owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, looks to streamline its sporting portfolio. Reports indicate that Ratcliffe has placed both Lausanne-Sport and the French club Nice up for sale as the group scales back its multi-club operations in Europe.
The focus of the ownership group remains heavily centered on Manchester United, where manager Michael Carrick is currently facing significant pressure. Manchester United has struggled with inconsistency, currently sitting in 17th place in the Premier League, leading to speculation about the future of the coaching staff at Old Trafford.
Tensions at Manchester United reached a peak during a recent Champions League match against Roma. Fans in the Stretford End protested against the ownership, including the Glazer family and Ratcliffe, by throwing balloons onto the field and chanting during the game. Despite trailing 2-0 at halftime, the team managed a 3-2 comeback victory, providing some relief regarding their standing in the competition.
While the European victory eased immediate concerns about elimination from the Champions League, the pressure on the club's leadership to improve domestic performance remains high. Observers suggest that Carrick must secure better results quickly to avoid a fate similar to that of Elsner at Lausanne-Sport.