Willy Sagnol, who has stepped down as head coach of the Georgia national football team, has released a farewell letter. In it, he thanked the country where he worked, stating that “even the most beautiful story has an end.”
“Dear Georgia, six unforgettable years have flown by, filled with emotions, special moments, and unique experiences that I will carry in my heart for the rest of my life. I thank this country for everything it has done for me. I would like to express my special gratitude to the Football Federation and my players. You gave me the opportunity to experience feelings I had never felt before and moments I will never forget.
However, even the most beautiful story comes to an end. And now the time has come for me to say goodbye—with respect, gratitude, and dignity. Here, I am leaving behind not just colleagues and like-minded professionals; I am leaving people with whom I have forged a genuine, deep friendship over these years. A friendship that, I am certain, will endure for decades to come. Georgia will always hold a special place in my heart. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you a bright future, because you deserve it more than anyone. Thank you for these six extraordinary years. Goodbye, and I am sure we will meet again very soon,” Sagnol wrote in his letter.
According to media reports, Willy Sagnol was dismissed yesterday, September 25, following the Georgia national team’s 0-1 defeat to Northern Ireland in a UEFA Nations League match. The French tactician had led the team since February 2021. Over that period, the squad played 57 matches. Under Sagnol’s guidance, Georgia achieved a historic milestone: in 2024, the team made its debut in the final tournament of the European Championship, where it advanced from the group stage into the round of 16.
Georgian specialist Ramaz Svanadze will now take charge of the national team (until the end of 2028). Until now, Svanadze managed the Georgia Under-21 national team, which he twice guided to the final tournament of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. In the remaining three fixtures of the U-21 qualifying campaign, Svanadze will be replaced by his assistant, Giorgi Adamia.
