Raymond Domenech at a Glance

On 2004, Raymond Domenech was a surprising selection for the France national team’s coach.  He replaced Jacques Santini who lost in the 2004 Euro quarter finals.

Domenech was born in Lyon, France on January 24, 1952.  He first played soccer in the late 1960s to the mid-1980s.  Domenech played for teams such as Lyon, Strasbourg, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bordeaux.  As a defender, he won the Coupe de France with Lyon in 1973, Championnat de France in 1979, and a second Coupe de France with Bordeaux in 1984.  He retired from playing with eight international caps.

Domenech first coached Mulhouse in 1985, before managing Lyon and the France Under 21 team.  His success with the U-21 led to his signing as the senior team’s coach.  He is the first coach to lead France to three successive tournaments qualifications.

Domenech is no stranger to raising fans eyebrows.  He has been known to select his players dubiously, involving questionable methods such as astrology.

In the 2006 World Cup, France made to the finals but loss to Italy in a penalty shootout.  Domenech’s reputation has been on the line.  France played badly in Euro 2008 and during the 2010 World Cup qualifications.  Domenech will have to prove himself in South Africa.