Three separate awards for French Player of the Year in 1982, 1983, and 1987 established Alain Giresse as a dominant midfield force in European football. Born in Langoiran in 1952, he utilized his agility and acceleration to command the pitch, becoming a central figure in the mid-1980s French national team lineup.
International Playing Career
Giresse represented the France national team throughout a period of significant achievement. He participated in the 1982 FIFA World Cup, where his side finished in fourth place, and the 1986 FIFA World Cup, securing third place. His involvement in the 1984 UEFA European Championship resulted in a title victory for France. During these years, he played alongside Michel Platini, Luis Fernández, and Jean Tigana, forming the tactical midfield unit known as the Carré Magique.
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At the club level, Giresse earned major domestic titles with Bordeaux, including the French Division 1 championships in the 1983–84 and 1984–85 seasons, as well as the Coupe de France in 1985–86. His individual performance was recognized through multiple selections for the World XI from 1982 to 1986 and inclusion in the 1984 UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament. He received the Onze d'Argent in 1982 and finished as the runner-up for the Ballon d'Or that same year.
Transition to Management
Following his playing career, Giresse transitioned into coaching roles across various international teams and clubs. He managed Paris Saint-Germain, winning the Trophée des Champions in 1998, and secured the Coupe du Trône with FAR Rabat in 2003. His international management experience includes periods in charge of Gabon, Georgia, Mali, Senegal, Tunisia, and Kosovo. While managing Mali, he led the team to a third-place finish at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
Fast facts
- Born: 1952, Langoiran, France
- Primary Occupations: Association football player and coach
- Key Playing Position: Attacking or central midfielder
- French Player of the Year: 1982, 1983, 1987
- Notable Honour: Knight of the Legion of Honour (2006)
- Significant Midfield Formation: Carré Magique
- Last Recorded Role: Kosovo national team manager (until 2023)
Questions readers ask
Which international teams has Alain Giresse managed?
He has managed several national teams including Gabon, Georgia, Mali, Senegal, Tunisia, and Kosovo.
What is the Carré Magique?
It refers to the Magic Square midfield formation composed of Alain Giresse, Michel Platini, Luis Fernández, and Jean Tigana.
Achievements
- Knight of the Legion of Honour — 2006
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
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