Four clubs in sixteen years, two climbs and two relegations, very long periods without training: the career of Jean-Pierre Papin on the bench is not as linear and flashy as that which he knew with n ° 9 flocked in the back.
Arcachon (2004-2006): the foot to the stirrup
After a long playing career, which he extended on amateur grounds to 41 years, Jean-Pierre Papin made his first coaching steps in the summer of 2004, at FC Bassin d’Arcachon Sud, in his region of adoption. He has just graduated, in the same promotion as Rudi Garcia and Didier Deschamps, and wishes to learn his trade without pressure. He doesn’t make a big deal out of it, he’s almost a volunteer since he only gets match bonuses and gas. Under his thumb, the Girondin club climbs directly from DH to CFA2, before staying there (5th).
Strasbourg (2006-2007): a rise then sacked
He is missing the limelight. The former OM striker signs his return to the professional world and takes charge of Strasbourg’s destiny. His mission ? Bring Ligue 1 back to Meinau stadium. At the cost of numerous victories snatched up in money-time, he hoisted the RCSA on the third step of the podium. The challenge is taken up, but there is frying on the line with the leaders. JPP would have applied to Lens, and it would not have pleased … He is not renewed.
Jean-Pierre Papin, a legend now leading C’Chartres Football
Lens (2007-2008): bitter experience
The former Velodrome darling is called to the bedside of Lens, 18th in L1, after Guy Roux returned his apron from the 5th day. Despite the arrival of Daniel Leclercq in January to support him, the results did not improve and the artesian club finally fell in L2. The final of the League Cup lost to PSG did not allow Papin to save his head: he was replaced by … Jean-Guy Wallemme.
Châteauroux (2010): successful rescue
At the end of December 2009, the Ballon d ‘Or 91 accepted a mission to Châteauroux, where he was asked to play the duty firefighter to save the club. After five trying months for him, the Berrichonne manages to ensure its maintenance in Ligue 2 on the wire, at the expense of Strasbourg. But he chooses to stop there. His coaching career is put to sleep.
Arcachon (2014-2015): back to basics
Become a sports consultant on BeIN Sports, Jean-Pierre Papin dives back for love of football. He divides his weeks between Arcachon, promoted to CFA2, and Paris. The team finishes last.
Papin: “Yes, I will be the Chartres coach”
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