Patrick Vieira has gotten his stint as New York City FC head coach off to a successful start, keeping the club at or near the top of the Eastern Conference for most of his first season in charge.
But, according to an interview that the former Arsenal and France midfielder gave to L’Equipe, he almost ended up managing in France before leaving Manchester City to take the NYCFC gig last December.
“Some time ago, I talked to some French clubs. Very good clubs,” he said. “Unfortunately, for various reasons, it didn’t work out. But there are some very interesting projects in France. Out of respect for the clubs in question, I can’t say anything.”
Vieira, who made 107 appearances with the French national team during his playing days and was a part of the squad that won the 1998 World Cup, also revealed that he dreams of one day coaching his country.
“For the moment, I’m … [raises his hand to show that he thinks he’s a long way off]. However, when you have chosen this line of work, you can’t say no,” he said. “To coach the French national team is a dream, just as it was a dream to win the World Cup or wear that blue shirt.”
Vieira and NYCFC will return to action on Saturday, when they host US Open Cup champions FC Dallas at Yankee Stadium (7 pm ET; MLS LIVE) in a match that will have major implications in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.
