Fabien Galthié has announced that he will step down as Head Coach of Stade Francais Paris at the end of the season.
The former France international captain joined Stade Français in 2001 and became the head coach of Max Guazzini's club in 2004 after the departure of Nick Mallett.
In his three seasons at the helm of the growing metropolitan club Galthie's achievements include one French championship and an unsuccessful appearance in the Heineken Cup final at Murrayfield, where Paris were defeated by arch rivals Toulouse in 2005.
"This decision was not easy to take because I think coaching is the best thing I can do said the 39 year old who experience European Challenge Cup success as a player. When I coach a team, I am in my element. I've been with Paris for three seasons now as Coach and if we want the club to improve, we have to change something. Unfortunately, I have been unable to make the necessary improvements. I have to be honest with the players and with my president… That's why I took the decision now."
Following the recent announcement of Pieter De Villiers retirement, today's news will see the departure of another charismatic figure from Jean Bouin.
