Football Season Guide

Lille endured a nightmare campaign last time out in which they suffered financial difficulties and flirted with relegation. Their aim at the beginning of that season was initially to challenge for Europe and while they certainly do not expect to be fighting it out at the wrong end of the table once again, their ambitions at the other end of the table will have been tempered by their chastening experiences. Christophe Galtier remains in charge after taking over at the start of the year and has added experience to his squad – and notably offensive quality. Loic Remy has arrived from Las Palmas, with the former Chelsea and Marseille striker still well capable of performing at this level, although doubts remain over his fitness levels. Nevertheless, having also added Jonathan Bamba from Saint-Etienne on a free transfer, they have added to Nicolas Pepe, who was their sole goal threat last season. Additionally, the promising Jonathan Ikone will look to become more consistent with Lille, and if he can, he will be a very valuable addition to the squad. With Xeka recalled from loan, they have a player who can control things in the centre of the park, which will be very valuable. However, there are some concerns over the stability of LOSC in the defensive areas. They did not impress across the rearguard last term, save for Kevin Malcuit, who spent around half the campaign injured. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan is regarded as a promising player but made too many errors last season and did not seem to benefit from having an unpredictable defence in front of him. He came under too much pressure and had a tendency to fold. He is not even guaranteed to be the club’s No.1 this term.