Former Chelsea and Arsenal star Nicolas Anelka appointed Lille’s youth striker coach where he is ‘out of the spotlight’
Anelka, 39, has no interest in working with the first team as things stand
FORMER Arsenal star Nicolas Anelka has agreed to become Lille’s youth striker coach – where he can “stay out of the limelight” – manager Christophe Galtier has revealed.
Anelka retired from professional football in November 2015 following a short stint at Mumbai City.
The ex-Chelsea striker scored 157 goals in 508 appearances during an impressive 19-year career in top-flight football.
And now the 39-year-old has taken his first step towards a potential first-team coaching role after agreeing to join the Ligue 1 side.
Speaking to AFP, president Gerard Lopez confirmed the ex-Chelsea striker will “work with players ranging from 14 years up to the reserve team.”
And boss Galtier says Anelka is relishing the opportunity to work with the club’s youngsters.
He said: “Nicolas is really enthusiastic. He wants to stay out of the spotlight and bring some of his striking expertise and know-how to our young players.
“But for the moment he does not want to get involved with the professionals.”
Anelka professional’s bow came for PSG back in 1996, before going on to enjoy huge success at Arsenal and later sealing a mega-money move to Real Madrid.
The forward also spent time at Manchester City, Liverpool and Bolton in the Premier League, ending his professional career in Mumbai– which included a brief stint as player/manager.
