Football Season Guide

Montpellier fell out of the top 10 in Ligue 1 for the first time in five seasons as they finished 13th last term, which was their first under the guidance of head coach Olivier Dall’Oglio. They boasted a competitive squad and the outcome was a disappointing one, with the club having previously enjoyed several years of stability. Financial issues have forced a cutback of spending, and that is set to be evident in terms of who they are able to sign before the end of August. Certainly, the additions they have made this summer are not exactly enthralling. Wahbi Khazri, Arnaud Nordin and Falaye Sacko were all members of the Saint-Etienne squad that was surprisingly relegated last season – albeit three of the better performing players. Otherwise, full-backs Theo Sainte-Luce and Faitout Maouassa are the only players to join up. Conversely, there are numerous players who depart, including starting full-backs Junior Sambia and Mihailo Ristic, who is comfortably replaced by Arnaud Souquet at least. Experienced attacking midfielder Remy Cabella has also gone but he did not make an impression on his return to the club, while Florent Mollet was clearly uncomfortable being asked to play out on the right wing, and his departure is logical. It's not all bad news for Montpellier, though. They have retained the services of key playmaker Teji Savanier, who has signed a new contract. He was hampered by injury last season and he will be a pivotal player this time around if he can stay fit. Indeed, Montpellier look well stocked offensively. In a more defensive sense, Jordan Ferri is their lynchpin in the centre of the field and will be paired by the improving Joris Chotard. At the back, Mamadou Sakho’s level dictates how well Montpellier defend. He can either elevate those around him or bring them down. There is a little lack of depth for now at centre-back. In goal, meanwhile, Jonas Omlin is a steady goalkeeper.