Troyes have been the ultimate yo-yo team in France over the course of the last eight seasons, during which they have changed leagues on seven occasions. Heading into the 2018-19 season, their aim is to win a place back in the top flight, having been relegated last term with 33 points.
There has been a significant turnover in their playing pool as well as an alteration in the dugout, with Rui Almeida taking over from Jean-Louis Garcia. Mainstays of the team last season, like holding midfielder Francois Bellugou, centre-back Christophe Herelle and midfielder Tristan Dingome have all departed, while promising winger Samuel Grandsir has been snapped up by Monaco.
But it has not all been bad news on the recruitment front, with Hyun-Jun Suk arriving on a permanent deal from Porto after a decent season last term. Other strong Ligue 2 players have been signed, such as Yoann Touzghar, Jason Berthomier and Rayan Raveloson. All of these figures underperformed somewhat last term and more will be expected for them this time around, especially as they have all moved to a club seeking promotion.
While there is little doubt that the strength of their squad has depleted, it still remains strong for this standard, with numerous players with excellent experience at a higher level, notably in the defensive areas. The midfield should have a good deal of depth to it, with Stephane Darbion and Bryan Pele charged with lifting the creative burden from 40-year-old veteran Benjamin Nivet, who still remains a useful player. There are good options in attack, meanwhile, with Adama Niane having scored 23 times last time he played at this standard. If he can replicate that return, Troyes should feel good about having a shot at promotion.
