The 40-year-old assumes his first senior managerial role amid supporters' unrest, with the club hoping his elite playing pedigree can inspire a revival as they struggle in the third tier of French football.
Clichy replaces Maxime d’Ornano, who was dismissed following a poor league run and an early Coupe de France exit.
Caen have endured inconsistency and a lack of direction since relegation from Ligue 2, leaving them mid-table in the Championnat National and in urgent need of a reset.
The appointment also comes amid tensions between fans and ownership - which includes Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe - with protests over recent decisions, including the sacking of club legend Nicolas Seube.