By Andrew Warshaw
December 14 – Former French head coach and Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, one of the most knowledgeable, astute and widely respected figures of his generation, has died aged 73, prompting a string a tributes from across the footballing world.
Houllier, a former amateur player turned English teacher, managed Liverpool from 1998-2004, leading them to five major trophies, including the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup treble in 2000-01.
Prior to Liverpool, he managed Lens, Paris St-Germain and the French national team, and after leaving the Reds won two Ligue 1 titles at Lyon.
Houllier wasn’t always successful and resigned as French head coach after failing to take the team to the 1994 World Cup in the United States. But his erudite opinions on all aspects of the game – whether in French or almost accent-less fluent English – were always keenly followed and he was part of UEFA and FIFA’s Technical Committee at both the 2002 and 2006 World Cup.
UEFA paid tribute to Houllier at the start of today’s Champions League draw. “He greatly contributed to European football,” UEFA deputy secretary general Giorgio Marchetti said.
Reports in France say Houllier died after having a heart operation in Paris.
Sadly, he had a long history of heart problems, dating back to being rushed to hospital at halftime during a Premier League game between Liverpool and Leeds United in October 2001 when doctors reportedly operated on him for several hours to repair damage to a major artery.
His last managerial job was with Aston Villa for whom he signed a three-year deal in 2010 but he stepped down after just nine months after suffering chest pains and never returned to the dugout amid concerns it could cause further health issues.
“We are mourning the passing of our treble-winning manager, Gerard Houllier,” Liverpool said on Twitter. “The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Gerard’s family and many friends. Rest in peace, Gerard Houllier 1947-2020.”
The French football federation said it extended “its deepest condolences to the family and friends” of Houllier, who had a long association with the national team from youth coach upwards.
Phil Thompson, Houllier’s assistant at Liverpool who was caretaker coach while the Frenchman was recovering from heart problems, summed up the views of almost everyone who came into contact with him – including this writer.
“Just to be in his company was an absolute treat,” said Thompson.
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