Jens Berthel Askou Steps Down from Motherwell to Join Toulouse
Jens Berthel Askou has departed from Motherwell following a commendable debut season at the club, accepting the managerial position at Toulouse in France. Under his guidance, Motherwell secured a fourth-place finish in the Scottish Premiership and a much-coveted return to European football next season with a decisive victory over Hibernian last Saturday.
The 43-year-old, who took the reins from Michael Wimmer last summer, has received accolades for introducing an attractive and effective style of football. His tactical vision briefly positioned the Steelmen as contenders for the league title, showcasing significant improvements throughout the season.
During his tenure, Askou helped Motherwell break the club’s defensive record, attracting interest from other teams, including Celtic. In a statement, Askou expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the experience, stating that the past year has been an incredible journey fueled by support from players, staff, and fans alike. “Ending the season with a significant victory at Easter Road is something I will always cherish,” he said.
The outgoing manager remarked on the opportunities football presents, noting that sometimes one must leave behind something great to pursue new paths. His leadership not only brought success but provided a vision of what the club could achieve with continued ambition. “I hope to watch from the sidelines as the club moves forward,” he added, conveying his optimism for Motherwell’s future.
Chairman Kirk McMillan conveyed his well-wishes to Askou, emphasizing that the club had always known a successful tenure could lead to new opportunities for the manager. “Toulouse plays in one of Europe’s top five leagues, making this a fantastic opportunity for Jens. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him the best,” McMillan stated.
As for the future, McMillan highlighted that Motherwell remains committed to building upon this season’s success. With over 20 first-team players already signed and European football on the horizon, the club is focused on maintaining momentum. “This is just the beginning of our journey,” he noted.
Prior to his time in Scotland, Askou gained valuable experience as an assistant at Copenhagen and Sparta Prague, along with managerial roles in Sweden, the Faroe Islands, and his home country of Denmark. With Toulouse seeking a new manager following the departure of Carles Martínez Novel, Askou’s arrival could signal a new era for the French club.
