Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl
Ralph Hasenhuttl has signed a new deal with Southampton

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl signs new four-year deal with Premier League club


Southampton have announced that their manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has signed a new four-year deal with the Premier League club.

The Austrian coach succeeded Mark Hughes at the St Mary’s helm in December 2018 following an eye-catching stint at RB Leipzig.

Hasenhuttl has turned around Southampton's fortunes following a 9-0 hammering at Leicester earlier in the season and they currently sit 14th in the table - seven points above the relegation zone.

Speaking to the club's official website, Hassenhuttl said: "This, for me, was a simple decision. Simple because of the relationship that I have built with the club, the players and the fans, and also because of the relationship they have built with me too.

"I said when I arrived at the club that we were at the beginning of a long journey, and also a journey that would bring emotion and hopefully enjoyment. We have already had some moments where we could celebrate together, and some that have been emotional and also challenging.

Danny Ings and Nathan Redmond celebrate for Southampton
Danny Ings and Nathan Redmond celebrate for Southampton

"The way we have handled this together as a group of people has been incredible for me, and I believe we now have strong foundations here that can allow us to take the next steps in our progress as a team.

"For me, this is an important step in the journey. My players, our staff, and of course the supporters must understand my commitment to this club and to what we are trying to build together.

"We value the same philosophies, and this is a big part of why I want to stay here, and I hope we can share in some very successful moments moving forward."

Southampton CEO Martin Semmens added: "From day one, Ralph has had a positive impact on the club, everyone within it and our fans.

"He joined our club at a time when strong leadership was needed to drive the club forward. This he delivered, but it was the clarity of vision that has ultimately led us to this point.

Stuart Armstrong: Southampton midfielder celebrates a goal in the win at Crystal Palace
Stuart Armstrong: Southampton midfielder celebrates a goal in the win at Crystal Palace

"It is clear to me that Ralph believes in this club and is passionate about the project we have ahead of us. He understood who we are very quickly, and over the last six months has developed a vision for the club that we believe will lead us back to success on the pitch. A new philosophy on the pitch, but very much rooted in our values and history.

"To be competitive within the Premier League you simply cannot stand still. We need a clear plan that is rooted in hard work and the development of young players on and off the pitch.

"Ralph brings to us experience of winning, but more than that, an absolute commitment to his philosophy and the development of all age groups at the club."

Alongside Hasenhuttl, Richard Kitzbichler has also extended his contract as assistant coach and will continue to work with the existing first team staff of Craig Fleming, Dave Watson, Kelvin Davis, Andrew Sparkes and Alek Gross.


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