Clermont's coaching changes take shape

Clermont's upcoming season coaching staff is beginning to take form, with several key developments. Joe El Abd will not arrive until next year, and Frédéric Charrier has already left, but many details about the team remain to be finalized. A significant portion of the physical trainers and medical staff are expected to leave, as reported by La Montagne.

Brock James confirmed as coach

Brock James is set to join Clermont's coaching staff, with an agreement now in place, according to Midi Olympique. The former fly-half of ASM, who played for Clermont from 2006 to 2016, will take charge of the attack and the backs. His return to the club is a long-awaited move, as he had expressed a desire to coach in Auvergne for years.

James's rugby career and coaching background

A true legend of Clermont, Brock James was one of the best fly-halves in the Top 14, known for his exceptional kicking and famous gloves. After his time in Auvergne, he played for Union Bordeaux-Bègles and Stade Rochelais. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching with the Ospreys and Hawke's Bay, gaining experience in kicking and player-coaching roles.

Forwards and defense coaches stay

Julien Laïrle, the forwards and defense coach of ASM, arrived in Auvergne in 2023. His contract ends in June, but an extension is likely, according to Midi Olympique. Alexandre Castola, who has been in charge of the scrum since 2025, is expected to continue with Clermont. Both would maintain the current setup for the forwards.

Christophe Urios moves to sports director

Christophe Urios has extended his contract and will move into a new role as sports director starting next season. President Jean-Claude Pats explains that the ASM has created this position, giving Urios responsibility for recruitment, training, and squad management. Joe El Abd will succeed him as head coach, arriving after the 2027 World Cup.

El Abd's background and contract

Joe El Abd will remain with Clermont until the 2027 World Cup, serving as the defense coach for England before taking over as head coach. He will be absent during the team's preparation and early matches. His expertise in technique, management, and data, gained with England, is expected to benefit Clermont. His contract, like Urios's, lasts three years starting from July 1 of next year.

Recent signings and future priorities

The ASM has officially announced the arrival of Grégoire Arfeuil and extended contracts for Anthime Hemery and Alivereti Loaloa until 2029. The club's priorities are recruitment and contract extensions. Karl Sorin's arrival is the latest major move. The club still needs to finalize decisions on several players, including Thibaud Lanen, Kylan Hamdaoui, and others.