Former Blackpool striker Armand Gnanduillet is enjoying a new chapter in France under a manager with Premier League pedigree. The 34-year-old, who scored 43 goals in 145 games for the Seasiders, now plays for Stade Malherbe Caen in Ligue 3, where Gaël Clichy took charge last year.
Gnanduillet described Clichy as a good manager with good ideas and a good person. "He’s just a good guy and answers all of the questions," Gnanduillet said. "He’s someone that wants to win as well."
Learning from a winner
The former Arsenal and Manchester City full-back's experience at the top level has provided a unique resource for Gnanduillet. The striker said he regularly asks Clichy about former teammates like Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri, and Thierry Henry. "I’m a huge fan of football, so I’m just asking him questions every single day," Gnanduillet explained.
Gnanduillet played for Blackpool between 2016 and 2020, helping the club win promotion to League One. Since moving to Caen in 2025, he has scored seven goals in 38 appearances. His career has also seen him play under managers including Teddy Sheringham, Ian Evatt, and Kevin Nolan. He supported Arsenal during his time in England.
Blackpool's current focus
While Gnanduillet builds his experience abroad, his former club is handling the early stages of the League One season. Blackpool currently sit 10th in the table with eight points from six matches. Their recent form shows one win, one draw, and three defeats from the last five games. Neil Critchley's side drew 2-2 with Bromley last time out, with goals from Albie Morgan and Tom Bloxham. They face a tough test next, hosting sixth-placed Plymouth at Bloomfield Road this Saturday. Fans can check the full fixtures list and the latest standings on the club site. The squad, which Gnanduillet was once a key part of, continues its campaign aiming for a push up the table.
More detail at Blackpool Gazette
