Football Season Guide

Grenoble have had a disjointed pre-season, with a couple of friendlies called off because of coronavirus-related issues. Nevertheless, after finishing in the top half of the standings last term, the Stade des Alpes club approach the new season with a sense of optimism, particularly after beating Ligue 1 opponents Nimes 2-0 at the start of August. Their strength last season was their defensive work, and to that end they have lost a couple of centre-backs in the form of Eric Vandenabeele and Pierre Gibaud, the latter's absence will be especially felt. Only Bert Straalman – largely untested at Rodez due to injuries and the curtailed season – has thus far come in as a replacement, though there is good cover there through Loic Nestor and Adrien Monfray. Additionally, the right-back area seems to have been strengthened with the arrival of Jordy Gaspar. Well-travelled midfielder Kevin Tapoko has arrived from Hapoel Be’er Sheva and should provide more steel in the midfield, but it is in attack where Grenoble must be more efficient. They need to get out of a habit of dominating games but not winning them due to wasted chances. Arsene Elogo’s departure is a blow in that regard, though Grenoble are hoping a couple of signings from the tier below will be able to step up. Mamadou Diallo got eight goals in 19 matches for Creteil, while centre forward Achille Anani scored 16 in 22 for Bourg – both impressive figures in a very defensive league. Additionally, young attacking midfielder Maxence Renoud, signed from Montceau in the amateur ranks, has impressed in pre-season and the return of Yoric Ravet is a huge coup. With the likes of Kristofer Kristinsson and Terrell Ondaan both coming back from injury-hit campaigns, they should have more firepower than before.