# FC Basel leadership and coaching changes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/fc-basel-leadership-and-coaching-changes
> Updated: 2026-10-11T16:22:31.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 4.

FC Basel has appointed Slaviša Jokanović as its new head coach following the departure of Stephan Lichtsteiner. The decision to part ways with Lichtsteiner followed a poor start to the season and a series of disappointing results during the first seven rounds. Jokanović, 58, succeeds interim manager Luigi Nocentini, who served during the international break.

Jokanović brings extensive international experience from clubs including Al-Nasr, Watford, Fulham, Sheffield United, Dinamo Moscow, Maccabi Tel Aviv, and Al-Gharafa. In Serbia, he achieved success with Partizan, winning two domestic doubles. While Nenad Bjelica was considered a leading candidate, the club ultimately selected Jokanović. Technical Director Andreas Herman stated the club agreed Jokanović was the “right fit due to his experience handling difficult situations.”

Basel President David Degen expressed satisfaction with the appointment. Although Jokanović’s current contract runs until the end of the season, he has indicated a desire to remain at the club long-term if successful.

Jokanović’s tenure began with a difficult result, as Basel suffered a 3-0 defeat against FC Vaduz in his debut match. Vaduz secured the win with two goals from Marcel Monsberger and a third from Lutfi Dalipi. Despite several saves from goalkeeper Jonas Omlin, Basel’s defensive struggles contributed to the loss. Following this defeat, the club sits in seventh place with 17 points, having lost four of their last five league matches.

In addition to the coaching change, the club is restructuring its management. Andreas Böni will join as Managing Director of FC Basel Holding AG and Chief Communications & Club Media Officer of FC Basel 1893 AG, expected to officially assume his role by April 1, 2027.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-11: FC Basel loses 3-0 to Vaduz in Jokanovic debut

FC Basel lost 3-0 to FC Vaduz in Slavisa Jokanovic's debut match as head coach, leaving the club in seventh place.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fc-basel-loses-3-0-to-vaduz-in-jokanovic-debut

### 2026-09-28: FC Basel appoints Slavisa Jokanovic as new head coach

Slavisa Jokanovic has been appointed as the new head coach of FC Basel, replacing Stefan Lichtsteiner following a string of poor results.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fc-basel-appoints-slavisa-jokanovic-as-new-head-coach

### 2026-09-26: FC Basel appoints Slaviša Jokanović as new head coach

FC Basel has appointed experienced manager Slaviša Jokanović as head coach, opting for him over candidate Nenad Bjelica following the departure of Stephan Lichtsteiner.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fc-basel-appoints-slavia-jokanovi-as-new-head-coach

### 2026-09-23: FC Basel appoints Slavisa Jokanovic as coach and Andreas Böni to leadership

FC Basel has appointed Slavisa Jokanovic as head coach and Andreas Böni as Managing Director and Chief Communications Officer to strengthen the club's leadership and strategic communication.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fc-basel-appoints-slavisa-jokanovic-as-coach-and-andreas-bni-to-leadership

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Cite as: FC Basel leadership and coaching changes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/fc-basel-leadership-and-coaching-changes