Ex-Lens boss Haise named new Nice coach

Former Lens coach Franck Haise was appointed Nice boss on Thursday, replacing Francesco Farioli, the French Ligue 1 side announced in a statement.

Haise, 53, has signed a three-year contract with Ineos-backed Nice having left the Lens at the end of last season.

"Franck is a recognised coach with a wealth of skills and a global vision drawn from his extensive experience, both in the professional game and in training," said Florent Maurice, who was appointed sporting director.

"We believe he is the ideal person to continue the club's project and take us to the next level," he added.

Frenchman Haise was named Ligue 1 coach of the year in 2022-2023 when he guided Lens to second place behind Paris Saint-German and into the Champions League.

Last season Lens finished seventh to book a place in the Europa Conference play-off round.

Nice will feature in the Europa League next season having finished fifth under Farioli.

"I was convinced by the project," Haise said.

"We found an agreement quickly because we want to get to work quickly," the former defender added.

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