Lens manager Pierre Sage collected the UNFP Ligue 1 Coach of the Year award on Monday but quickly turned the spotlight onto his counterpart at Marseille, Habib Beye. Beye has been under fire after a troubled start to the season, claiming on Sunday that he faced 'acharnement' from the media. Sage, who previously served as Beye's assistant at Red Star, offered a heartfelt defense.
"First of all, you should know that I was Habib Beye's assistant for a year and a half, and Red Star got promoted the year I left," Sage recalled. "They didn't need me to go up, and the rest of the staff did an extraordinary job, as things progressed year after year."
Expanding on his solidarity, Sage said: "I am quite solidary with Habib, regarding what he is going through, regarding what is being imposed on him. I think, very sincerely, that if he continues to hang on, if he is given time, if the planets align in the right direction, everything will go well for him." He added that Beye is "both a beautiful person and a great coach" from their time together.
Sage's words come as Beye navigates increasing scrutiny at Marseille. After a summer of high expectations, results have not met the board's ambitions, leading to speculation about his job security. Beye's post-match comments on Sunday highlighted his feeling of being unfairly targeted by the media, an assertion that Sage's support now reinforces.
For Sage, the UNFP award recognizes his own achievements at Lens, where he has built a competitive team. His backing of Beye underscores the respect he holds for his former mentor and the camaraderie among Ligue 1 coaches. It also serves as a reminder that managerial stability is often key to long-term success.
The relationship between Sage and Beye dates back to their collaboration at Red Star, where they shared a promotion campaign. Sage credits Beye's leadership and humility, qualities that he believes will eventually see Beye through the current crisis. "We worked together daily, and I saw his dedication," Sage implied through his remarks.
As Marseille prepares for their next fixture, Beye will hope that Sage's public vote of confidence offers some respite. The football community will watch closely whether the OM board heeds the advice of patience or decides to make a change. For now, Sage's solidarity stands as a testament to the bonds formed in the game.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.