At one week from the Ligue 1 restart, the clubs have finished their friendly matches with contrasting results. Some teams have already laid the foundations for their season, while others still have a lot to adjust. The results don't tell the whole story, but they allow us to identify a trend before the first official matches.
Lens' performances raise concerns
Lens won the Como Cup, after dominating Villarreal in the final (3-1), and only lost to Sunderland (0-2). This is proof of their strong start to the season, as they won the Trophée des champions against Paris Saint-Germain (1-0). This gives them confidence and a positive dynamic to start the season.
Smaller clubs show competitiveness
Angers' coach Stéphane Gilli has already shown his precepts in action. Angers has notably beaten Paris FC (3-2) and Lorient (2-1), their last two matches. This is an interesting series that doesn't necessarily predict a qualification for the next Ligue des champions, but shows that the team has good references. Angers has resources and seems to have assimilated the precepts of its new coach.
Will Still's pat is taking shape at Auxerre
The AJA version of Will Still has left a rather favorable impression. Auxerre has only conceded one defeat, against Orléans (Ligue 3, 1-2) in their second preparation match, for two wins and two draws. Their last match, won against Werder Brême (1-0), has confirmed the good dispositions of the team.
Despite being tender, Troyes is undefeated
Troyes still needs to strengthen and this has been seen at times. The team's effectif appears still a bit light for Ligue 1, with a very young team that lacks maturity and experience. Patrick Beach has however been one of the satisfactions of the preparation, in showing himself particularly convincing.
