"When the Lens president, Joseph Oughourlian, set out the club's No 1 objective before the season, he did not mention European qualification, a points target or even a cup run. The task at hand was to rediscover financial solidity. Sporting ambitions have taken a backseat role at Lens since Oughourlian announced the introduction of austerity measures in the summer of 2024."
"Over the last five years, only Lille, Monaco and Lyon have made more profit from transfers. The common thread among these clubs is that they develop talent; Lens, historically, do not. Their positive balance sheet reflects their decision to sell players but not reinvest heavily on replacements. The manager's job is to prevent the effects of the incremental talent drain being felt on the pitch to stave off the rot."
Joseph Oughourlian prioritized rediscovering financial solidity, prompting austerity measures in summer 2024 and sidelining sporting targets. Lens sold many key players since the 2022-23 near-title season, including Seko Fofana, Lois Openda, Abdukodir Khusanov, Elye Wahi, Brice Samba, Kevin Danso, Neil El-Aynaoui, Andy Diouf and Facundo Medina. The club generated a positive transfer balance but lacked significant funds to buy replacements. Lens cannot rely on a strong academy like Lille, Monaco or Lyon, who profit from player development. The manager must prevent incremental talent drain from affecting results; Will Still finished eighth in 34 matches and Pierre Sage has produced a strong start.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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