French football is in mourning. Jean-Louis Gasset passed away this Friday morning, the day after Christmas, at the age of 72. The announcement was made by Montpellier Hérault Sport Club (MHSC), the club that was emblematic of his career, in a deeply moving statement.

"MHSC learned today, with immense sadness, of the passing of Jean-Louis Gasset," the club from the Hérault region stated, where he worked both as a player and as a coach. His passing leaves a great void in the landscape of French and African football.

A respected figure and iconic personality, Jean-Louis Gasset distinguished himself for many years as Laurent Blanc's assistant. Together, they left their mark on several major milestones in modern football, notably at Girondins de Bordeaux, with the French national team, and then at Paris Saint-Germain.

Subsequently, Gasset struck out on his own as a head coach. He managed several major Ligue 1 clubs, including AS Saint-Étienne, Girondins de Bordeaux, Olympique de Marseille and most notably Montpellier, where he had his last experience on the bench during the past season.

Beyond France, Jean-Louis Gasset has also left his mark on African football. Between 2022 and 2024, he held the position of manager of Ivory Coast, putting his expertise and experience at the service of the Elephants.

With the passing of Jean-Louis Gasset, football loses a seasoned technician, a passionate man on the ground and a renowned coach, whose legacy will remain etched in the memory of the clubs, players and supporters he influenced throughout his career.