With a limited financial windfall in the absence of the European Cup, AS Saint-Etienne must recruit intelligently, but above all downsize a heavy workforce and handicapped by some overpaid players. However, the Greens advance with a young and talented team, evidenced by their victory against Lorient (2-0), for their first championship match.
The misfortunes of Stéphane Ruffier, in total quarrel with trainer Claude Puel, have benefited him. And Moulin responds brilliantly.
Very good on its line and in its outings, the old lining adapts very well to its new status, and holds the house perfectly. As a bonus, this one is rather good in his kicking game.
Some blame him for some shortcomings in the defensive withdrawal, or in his ability to repeat the excesses in his corridor. Yet Debuchy should still occupy a prominent place in the eleven of Greens this season.
Yann M’Vila’s next departure will even increase his influence as a locker room leader.
From the start of the transfer window, coach Claude Puel was perfectly clear: Fofana will not move this summer. Despite the interest of big clubs like AC Milan, the French Espoirs international will stay in Forez and will continue to improve his progress with his training club.
Very good against Paris Saint-Germain (0-1) in the Coupe de France, Fofana is raising high expectations.
Definitely recruited in June and now linked to the Ligériens until June 2022, “Kolo” will have to assume a role of boss. Except in the event of Moukoudi waking up, the versatile defender will start and will have to ensure the post-Perrin, while allowing Fofana to progress.
Lively and rather fast, the former Tigers has regained some credit in the mind of his trainer Claude Puel, after a slight quarrel at the start of the year.
After a good season with Dunkirk, promoted to Ligue 2, Maçon made the big leap to Ligue 1 and ASSE. From the first release of Greens in Ligue 1, Claude Puel established him on the left flank. And to be honest, the explosive side player, training right back, was very convincing.
With the banishment of Miguel Trauco, and the uncertain physical form of Gabriel Silva, Mason has a real shot to play.
Upon arrival at the Greens, Youssouf was able to stand out. Technically gifted, and able to play in box-to-box, the former Bordeaux player was able to distinguish himself – and he was one of the only ones – in the Europa League last year. This season, he should settle in the eleven and bring his offensive talent.
Trained at the club, Camara rose in rank during the last season. The defensive midfielder understood this well, Puel wants to build with young people and he fits this category perfectly.
Able to evolve in a defensive role and very good at recovery, he will replace Yann M’Vila, well on his way to leaving the club before the end of the summer. Camara therefore has a golden opportunity to win.
His departure will leave some regrets to the supporters of Paris Saint-Germain. But at 18, Aouchiche wants to play and Greens offered him a great project.
Holder against Lorient for the first outing of the Stéphanois in Ligue 1, the former titi had a good match, showing himself available but above all very skillful technically.
Its technical quality will be significant for Greens and Aouchiche will have a key role to play in the ball’s transition from defense to attack.
Some thought it was over, to the point of considering his departure from the summer transfer window. But Romain Hamouma clings, and in what way! Author of a decisive double against Lorient, the winger sent a strong message to his coach Puel and to the skeptics.
Finally let go by the injuries, Hamouma wants to be decisive, as he has regularly been. Now remains to follow. In any case, by repeating such performances, his place is assured in the eleven.
Last year, Bouanga posted a stratospheric level. While ASSE was locked in an obvious mediocrity, the Gabonese worked hard to score decisive goals. Top scorer of Greens, the former Nîmes had an excellent first season at Geoffroy-Guichard.
But the hardest part is yet to come. Because this year, the collective will take precedence over individualities. Nevertheless, with his talent, Bouanga could benefit from an awakening of Greens to heal his stats even more.
We were waiting for Ryad Boudebouz to wake up, but it will not happen because the Algerian is pushed towards the exit. However, ASSE need not worry, as Nordin is ready to shine in attack.
Like his first outing against Lorient, during which he showed a great bond with Hamouma, the pure training winger will bring dynamism and dribble in attack.
Young and fast, Nordin will undoubtedly worry some defenses.