Former defender on his challenge as sporting director at Ligue 1 club and using Arsène Wenger as an inspiration
Returning to Brittany was the obvious choice for Laurent Koscielny. Having left Lorient for Arsenal in 2010, the former defender is back at the Ligue 1 side as the sporting director.
“My wife and I were keen to come back, it’s a beautiful region, and the people are welcoming and kind,” the Frenchman says of the seaside town, known for its annual Celtic music festival and military naval base.
After ending his playing career with an ill-fated spell at Bordeaux, Koscielny initially rejoined Lorient as a youth coach. He became part of the upper management when Les Merlus [the Hakes] were relegated in 2024. “The challenge was to return to Ligue 1 the next season for the club’s centenary year.” The club would go straight back up as champions.
Although Koscielny initially looked to “keep all doors open”, having taken coaching and sports management courses, the 40-year-old now has a clearer idea of where to take his career. “As sporting director, I get to have a relationship with everyone at the club. I really have an overall view of things, whether it’s finances, marketing, or what happens on the pitch.”
