Birthday occasion - contract extension © EuroFootball.com

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eam head coach José Anigo's contract has been extended until the summer of next year for the team's very successful performance in the UEFA Europa League. Anigo, who played for Marseille from 1979 to 1987, was appointed as the team's head coach in January of this year, replacing the dismissed Alain Perrin. The coach led the team very skillfully, especially in Europe, where the team reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League by defeating a club. They will now have to compete against Bobby Robson's team.

Marseille's president Christophe Bouchetas said: "The decision to renew José Anigo's contract was made last week - the qualification had no influence on it. I told José that I would announce it when the time was right. I think now is the right time. Anigo has established a very strong bond with the players, he is an excellent coach."

The president announced this news just on Anigo's 43rd birthday, which the coach celebrates today.