Former Senegal international Demba Ba has been appointed as the new sporting director of Ligue 1 club Le Havre Athletic Club, the club confirmed. Ba joins Le Havre after three seasons with USL Dunkerque, where he oversaw a fourth-place finish in Ligue 2 and a Coupe de France semi-final appearance in the 2024-2025 season.
Ba’s appointment comes after a period of uncertainty, with Dunkerque’s president previously stating he had no concerns about Ba remaining with the club for the upcoming season and was actively preparing for the transfer window with him. However, Ba will be returning to the club where his professional career began, having previously played for Le Havre. The club described Ba as a “builder” who will contribute to the club’s continued growth and stability in Ligue 1.
Throughout his playing career, Ba represented several clubs including Hoffenheim and Chelsea, showcasing a knack for negotiation and a competitive spirit, qualities he seemingly carried into his directorial role at Dunkerque. His time at Dunkerque saw a marked improvement in the club’s performance, establishing them as a competitive force in Ligue 2.
At Le Havre, Ba will work alongside head coach Didier Digard, who recently signed a contract extension with the club. This appointment signals Le Havre’s ambition to consolidate their position in the French top flight following their promotion. The move is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the club’s transfer strategy and player development, potentially shaping the team’s future success.
