BlueCo, the multi-club ownership group behind Chelsea FC, has installed Hugo Oliveira as head coach of RC Strasbourg Alsace. The 47-year-old Portuguese manager becomes the first coach from Portugal in the French club’s history, and the 53rd manager overall to take charge at Strasbourg.
The appointment, confirmed on July 11, 2026, follows Gary O’Neil’s departure to Ipswich Town.
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Strasbourg is reportedly paying a compensation fee between €2M and €4M to Portuguese club Famalicão to secure Oliveira’s release. He had been managing Famalicão since December 2024 under a contract that ran through June 2028.
BlueCo’s stated preference is for coaches who emphasize attractive, possession-based football. Oliveira is expected to sign his contract imminently and begin work with the squad around July 13 or 14, depending on final logistics.
