Ian Cathro Set For Surprise Saint-Étienne Move

Cathro’s impressive work at Estoril has attracted attention from one of France’s most famous clubs.

Ian Cathro is set for a major career move to Saint-Étienne after two successful seasons in charge of Estoril, according to reports in Portugal and Scotland. The former Hearts head coach is expected to leave the Portuguese side for the historic French club, with an agreement reportedly reached to release him from the final two years of his contract.

Saint-Étienne are said to have targeted Cathro after missing out on promotion back to Ligue 1, and he is now widely reported to be the man chosen to lead their rebuild. The move would mark a significant step up in profile for the 39-year-old Scot, who has rebuilt his reputation in Portugal after earlier spells in the UK. Reports in Portugal say Estoril will receive compensation for his departure.

Cathro spent two seasons at Estoril, finishing eighth in his first campaign and 10th in the second. Those results have been enough to put him on the radar of a club with real stature in French football, even if Saint-Étienne are currently outside the top flight. His rise has been noted by Portuguese and French outlets, which describe him as a surprise but serious appointment.

The move to Saint-Étienne underlines how much Cathro’s stock has improved since the difficult chapters of his career in Scotland. His work in Portugal has restored momentum and credibility, and the French job now offers him a chance to test himself at another historic club. If confirmed, it would be one of the more eye-catching appointments of the summer so far.