Former Leeds United defender Patrick Kisnorbo has become the first Australian to manage in one of Europe's 'top five' leagues after being appointed head coach of Ligue 1 side ES Troyes AC.
Kisnorbo made 56 appearances across all competitions during a four-year spell at Elland Road before returning to his homeland with Melbourne City. The 41-year-old subsequently began his managerial career with Melbourne's youth side.
Having been placed in charge of the first team in 2020, he led the club to a first-ever A-League trophy by winning the A-League Premiers Plate. Kisnorbo then guided City to their first A-League Championship a year later, winning plaudits for developing a team that mirrored his personal values of determination and fighting spirit.
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Alongside the likes of Melbourne, New York City and Manchester City, Troyes belong to a collective family of clubs which form part of the City Group. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Kisnorbo is a highly appreciated figure within the group.
Melbourne City FC CEO Brad Rowse hailed Kisnorbo's credentials upon his departure. “We consider ourselves lucky to have been able to hold onto Patrick for so long, and we celebrate what he has achieved at Melbourne City," he said.
"He has been instrumental in establishing our club’s philosophy and methodology in a way that is now sustainable and can be built upon further."
“Our success has come because we are all committed to the way we approach the game and the resulting ways in which we train and play. That approach is now fundamental to the club’s identity. It will be the foundation that Rado and the coaching team will continue to build upon and evolve as we continue the push for silverware.”
Kisnorbo arrives at Stade de l'Aube with Troyes failing to win any of their previous seven league outings. They sit just one point above the relegation in 13th after parting ways with Bruno Irles.
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