Football Season Guide

Montpellier finished last season in a credible sixth spot in Ligue 1, narrowly missing out on European football under the wily leadership of Michel Der Zakarian. The Stade de la Mosson club come into the new campaign in decent shape, although they are without a recognised No.1 goalkeeper having sold Benjamin Lecomte to Monaco and allowed Jonathan Ligali to be released. Youngster Dimitry Bertaud is in pole position for the role at present but would represent a huge gamble. Defensively, Montpellier are one of the most redoubtable sides in the league and a team that has not changed anything significant over the summer. Right wing-back Ruben Aguilar continues to be linked with a move away, but a man who is so strong going forward remains on their books. In the heart of the defence, meanwhile, Hilton may turn 42 in September, but has shown no signs of allowing his form to drop. The midfield sector, meanwhile, may have said goodbye to Ellyes Skhiri but returns for the new season a stronger unit. Jordan Ferri, who has significant Ligue 1 experience, has arrived from Lyon, but impressively they have managed to scoop up Teji Savanier, the league’s leading assist maker last season and a demon over a dead ball. With Florent Mollet also on their books, there should be no shortage of technical quality and creativity in the heart of the field. In attack, too, Montpellier are quietly well equipped, having competed the signing of Andy Delort, who struck up an effective partnership with Gaetan Laborde last season. Depth in this area does represent something of a worry, with Souleymane Camara now 36 and Petar Skuletic yet to prove himself since arriving a year ago, but both the regulars have good injury records of late. Pre-season has proven difficult, with two draws and two defeats in four matches, but Der Zakarian is expected to have his team ready to open up against Rennes on August 10.