A new chapter begins at Loftus Road, as Queens Park Rangers confirm the appointment of Julien Stéphan as Head Coach. The Frenchman arrives with a growing reputation as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking young managers—and this move marks his first venture outside his native France.

Speaking to QPR.co.uk, Stéphan said: “I feel very proud and excited to join QPR. QPR is a historic club with strong values and passionate fans, so I feel honoured.”

At 44, he brings with him a résumé that combines silverware, European qualification, and a reputation for tactical clarity and player development. For QPR, this is more than a managerial change—it’s the foundation of a new identity.

A career shaped by impact and ambition

Stéphan rose to prominence at Stade Rennais, where he progressed through the academy ranks before taking charge of the senior side in 2018. Within months, he led the club to their first Coupe de France title in 48 years, defeating Paris Saint-Germain in a dramatic final. He followed that with a third-place Ligue 1 finish, earning Champions League qualification for the first time in the club’s history.

A move to RC Strasbourg followed, where he guided the Alsace club to a sixth-place finish in 2021–22—their best league campaign in over four decades.

Return to Rennes: steadying the ship in 2023/24

In the summer of 2023, Stéphan returned to Rennes for a second spell, taking over after a difficult start under previous management. He brought much-needed balance and direction, helping the team climb into the top half of Ligue 1 and reach the Europa League knockout rounds. While the campaign didn’t deliver silverware, it served as a reminder of his ability to quickly implement structure and lift performance.

A style rooted in identity and bravery

In his first interview with the club, Stéphan outlined his vision: “I like my team to play with intensity, energy and personality,” he told QPR.co.uk. “I believe in collective organisation and also clear identity—but also in giving players freedom to express themselves. I like courage and I want brave players—players who take initiative, because I think to have emotion in football, we have to take risks.”

His preferred systems include 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3, built on controlling possession, creating overloads, and attacking with purpose. At Strasbourg, he successfully used a 3-5-2 when needed, showing tactical adaptability based on squad profile. His sides are recognised for their structured build-up, disciplined pressing, and the ability to switch shapes mid-game.

He added: “The main values are commitment, discipline, and team spirit. I expect my players to give everything on the pitch for the team, for the fans, and to show the right attitude. The shirt deserves respect—total respect—and it’s non-negotiable for me.”

Player development and people-first management

Stéphan is also a coach who invests deeply in individual relationships, particularly with younger players. His first spell at Rennes saw him trust and develop future stars like Eduardo Camavinga, Jeremy Doku, Raphinha, and Ismaïla Sarr, helping elevate them to top-level football.

“For me, each player is different,” he told QPR.co.uk. “Most important is to understand their personality, their strengths and also what motivates them. I try to build a strong relationship with them and create the conditions to put them in the right environment to develop.”

English football: a new challenge, a unique culture

The 2024/25 season will be his first outside France—and his first taste of the Sky Bet Championship. It’s a challenge he clearly relishes.

“There is something unique about English football,” he said to QPR.co.uk. “The intensity, the atmosphere, the passion of the fans, the tempo of the game, the culture around the club—all make it a very stimulating environment for a coach.”

As for the group he inherits: “I see a group with talent, commitment and potential,” he said. “I think for sure there’s work to do, but I think we have a great potential in the squad and there’s a strong foundation to develop.”

What to expect at Loftus Road

A progressive, possession-based system focused on structure, tempo, and intelligent movement
Tactical adaptability to switch between shapes depending on opposition and personnel
Commitment to youth development and creating space for young players to thrive
Discipline, team spirit, and bravery at the core of the club’s new on-pitch identity

Julien Stéphan arrives at QPR not just with experience, but with a vision. With calm authority and a footballing philosophy shaped by structure, intelligence and emotion, he begins his journey in English football with both clarity and conviction.

Julien Stéphan appointed QPR Head Coach – A bold vision for progressive, youth‑driven football

Julien Stéphan appointed QPR Head Coach – A bold vision for progressive, youth‑driven football