Thierry Henry: Arsenal legend steps down from Montreal job for family reasons amid Bournemouth links

ByEnis Koylu

Updated 25/02/2021 at 16:48 GMT

Thierry Henry has confirmed that he is leaving his role as CF Montreal's head coach to return to London. The Frenchman says he had been separated from his children due to the Covid-19 pandemic and wanted to put his family first, with rumours suggesting that he could soon fill the vacant job at AFC Bournemouth.

Thierry Henry has confirmed his resignation from the managerial job at CF Montreal due to family reasons amidst links with the vacancy at Championship club Bournemouth.

The Arsenal and France legend had been in charge of the Canadian MLS side since 2019, taking up the role after his departure from Monaco.

However, with the Covid-19 pandemic making international travel perilously hard and his family based in Europe, he has made the decision to leave the Quebecois side.

Olympic Games Paris 2024

France boss Henry warns of 'long journey' as groups drawn for Olympic football

20/03/2024 at 23:16

• Opinion: Benfica clash is Arsenal's biggest game of the season

"It is with a heavy heart that I've decided to take this decision. The last year has been an extremely difficult one for me personally," a statement from the former striker read.

Due to the worldwide pandemic, I was unable to see my children. Unfortunately due to the ongoing restrictions and the fact that we will have to relocate to the US again for several months will be no different. The separation is too much of a strain for me and my kids.

"Therefore, it is with much sadness that I must take the decision to return to London and leave CF Montreal. I would like to thank the fans, players and all the staff of this club that have made me feel so welcome."

Liverpool 'in the lead' over Milan for midfielder - Euro Papers

In recent weeks, Henry has been linked with a move to English football, with promotion hopefuls Bournemouth searching for a new manager after the sacking of Jason Tindall earlier this month.

The Cherries, who went down to the second tier last term, are seventh in the Championship, level on points with Cardiff City, who occupy the final play-off position.

Henry's time at Monaco was his first experience of management. Previously, he had worked with Arsenal's youth ranks and as Roberto Martinez's assistant with the Belgium team.

Champions League

Mbappe or Henry? Ferdinand and Hargreaves debate who they would pick

06/03/2024 at 00:06

Premier League

'That was Thierry Henry-ish' - Ferdinand compares Martinelli to Arsenal legend after Palace brace

20/01/2024 at 17:38

Premier League

'He opened my eyes' - Henry talks Guardiola, Wenger as he begins France U-21 role

11/09/2023 at 12:09