Strasbourg in advanced negotiations with Kjetil Knutsen, coach of the

According to Sports.

Context

Kjetil Knutsen, current manager of FK Bodø/Glimt, rose to prominence by leading his team to notable performances in European competition, including a Europa League campaign that saw them face Tottenham Hotspur. His experience and success in high-pressure contexts could be crucial to RC Strasbourg's future in Ligue 1.

Why this matters

The signing of Kjetil Knutsen could mark a new era for RC Strasbourg as they look to revitalize their Ligue 1 campaign following the departure of Gary O’Neil. Knutsen is recognized for his notable work at FK Bodø/Glimt, where he raised the Norwegian club's profile to European level, which could bring a new approach and strategy to Strasbourg.

Main conclusions

Strasbourg in advanced negotiations with Kjetil Knutsen, coach of the.
RC Strasbourg Alsace has opened advanced talks with Bodø/Glimt's Kjetil Knutsen for succession on the bench.
Strasbourg in talks with FK Bodø/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen - Yahoo Sports.

RC Strasbourg Alsace went to Norway in search of a new coach and has already started negotiations with Kjetil Knutsen, current coach of FK Bodø/Glimt, French daily L’Équipe has learned. The 57-year-old coach is highly appreciated in Strasbourg for the consistent work and international projection he has given the Norwegian champions in recent seasons.

The race for the position on the Strasbourg bench has seen several names in recent weeks. According to the French publication Onze Mondial, Wilfried Nancy was named as the favorite to take command. Subsequently, journalist Sacha Tavolieri indicated that the Danish Thomas Frank was emerging as the main candidate. However, the possibility of Frank not returning to action this summer will have reconfigured the dossier and, according to L’Équipe, there are two candidates left on the table – among them, Kjetil Knutsen.

Knutsen gained European status throughout his Bodø/Glimt cycle. In 2025, he led the team to a deep campaign in the Europa League, only being stopped by Tottenham Hotspur. In the following season, the Norwegian team once again took the lead in the Champions League, putting together performances that consolidated the coach's reputation as a strategist capable of maximizing resources and competing with opponents with bigger budgets.

Talks between Strasbourg and the Bodø/Glimt coach are, according to the same source, at an advanced stage. The Alsatian club intends to quickly close the dossier to prepare for the new season in time, optimizing squad planning and defining game ideas during the pre-season. Although there is no final agreement, interest is firm and Knutsen's profile, marked by organized teams, intensity without the ball and the ability to enhance players, fits with what the French are looking for to reinforce their competitiveness in Ligue 1.

The uncertainty regarding other chances opened up space for Knutsen to gain ground in the last few hours. If the negotiations progress favorably, Strasbourg will guarantee a coach recognized in the recent European scene, accustomed to working with sustainable projects and building teams with a clear identity. For now, the dossier remains open, with the French press highlighting that the next step could be decisive in sealing the succession on the Strasbourg club's bench.

What happens next

Negotiations between RC Strasbourg and Kjetil Knutsen are at an advanced stage, with the club wanting to quickly resolve the situation to prepare for next season. If the signing comes to fruition, Knutsen will be tasked with implementing his playing philosophy and maximizing the team's potential in Ligue 1, where Strasbourg are looking to improve their position.

Frequently asked questions

What happened to RC Strasbourg?

RC Strasbourg has started advanced negotiations with Kjetil Knutsen, current coach of FK Bodø/Glimt, to take over as coach.

Who confirmed the negotiations between Strasbourg and Knutsen?

The negotiations were reported by the French daily L'Équipe.

Why is Strasbourg negotiating with Kjetil Knutsen now?

Strasbourg intends to quickly close the dossier to prepare for the new season and optimize squad planning before pre-season.

What changes are being considered in Strasbourg?

Strasbourg are considering hiring Kjetil Knutsen as their new coach after a race for the role.

What is Kjetil Knutsen's profile as a coach?

Kjetil Knutsen is appreciated for his consistent work and the international projection he gave to FK Bodø/Glimt, standing out in European competitions.