Who Is Eirik Horneland? Deeper Dive Into New ASSE Manager

The 49-year-old has spent all of his coaching career in Norway, where he managed Haugesund (2016-19), Rosenborg (2019-20), and Brann (2021-24). He also has experience coaching Norway's U–19 team (2015-16) and served as an assistant at Haugesund (2010-14) and Brann (2020-21) before assuming the managerial role.

Horneland is embarking on his first coaching job outside of Norway when he agreed to take the Saint-Étienne job. When introducing him as Les Verts' new manager, Huss Fahmy, Executive Vice President of Kilmer Sports Ventures (ASSE’s new owners), explained the reasons behind the appointment.

"Part of our job involves following European football on a daily basis. We know Eirik's work, we have observed him. We wanted a coach capable of creating a strong playing identity, one that fits this club and this city."

"He has an attacking style, which is learned every day in training, but also the necessary framework to be solid. We have confidence in him. He is the coach we need, but also the man we need."

Of the three clubs he coached in Norway, Horneland experienced the most success with Brann during his four-year tenure. The manager's 4-3-3 attacking style led to 86 wins, 25 draws, and 25 losses and resulted in Brann winning the Norwegian Football Cup in 2022 when they defeated Lillestrøm 2-0.

Under Horneland, Brann scored 347 goals in 136 total matches which bodes well for Saint-Étienne, who have only scored 12 goals in 15 Ligue 1 McDonald's matches this 2024-25 season. While speaking to the media, Horneland talked about the style he wants the squad to play.

"First of all, I want discipline. We need a playing style with attacking patterns, but also good defensive organization. We must be very active on the pitch. We must get the best out of each player. Above all, I want a team that puts in intensity, because in my opinion that's what corresponds most to this club, this stadium, and these supporters."

"We want a clear identity, so that when people watch ASSE, they see progress, a style. The players must play with the right attitude, the right mindset in accordance with the values of this city. (...) For me, it's primarily about creating numerical superiority offensively."

"I want to bring many players into the opposition's box. That's what people want to see. I also want to create game plans to showcase the players and their creativity. The right system of play allows us to get the best out of everyone."

Horneland has a challenging task ahead as Les Verts are currently in the relegation playoff spot and since October, the squad has only won three matches while losing seven contests. Saint-Étienne are also out of the Coupe de France following their 4-0 loss to Olympique de Marseille.

ASSE's first match under Horneland will be on January 4 when they host Stade de Reims at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

Photo credit: @ASSEofficiel

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