Former OGC Nice player and Brest manager Éric Roy dies aged 58

Roy died at the age of 58 after battling pancreatic cancer for three and a half years, his family announced on Wednesday.

In a message shared on social media, they paid tribute to his strength, kindness and passion for football, saying he continued working with remarkable courage throughout his illness.

Born in Nice, Roy began his professional career with OGC Nice in the late 1980s before going on to play for clubs including Toulon, Lyon and Marseille.

He later returned to Nice as a coach and sporting figure, remaining closely associated with the club throughout his career.

But it was at Brest that Roy wrote one of the most remarkable chapters of his football life.

Appointed manager in January 2023, he transformed the Breton club into one of Ligue 1’s biggest surprises, guiding them to third place in 2024 and securing their first-ever qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

That achievement earned him the Ligue 1 Manager of the Year award and a lasting place in Brest’s history.

The club later enjoyed a memorable European campaign, facing some of the continent’s biggest teams.

Tributes have poured in from across French football.

Didier Deschamps praised Roy as both a highly skilled coach and a deeply human person, while former teammates and players remembered his generosity, courage and ability to bring people together.

Beyond his results on the pitch, Roy will be remembered for the dignity with which he faced illness and the warmth he showed to players, staff and supporters alike.

His family said his adventure with Stade Brestois brought him joy and strength during the most difficult years of his life.