Football Season Guide

Laval were one of the big surprises in Ligue 2 last season as they threatened to achieve a playoff place before ultimately dropping back and finishing seventh for the second successive season. They were a team that was successful due to a direct style and prowess from set-pieces and over the course of the summer they have not dramatically changed their approach. Heading into the new season, Laval are still seeking to recruit another attacker. This is not a big surprise given their lack of numbers up front, with a heavily reliance on veteran striker Malik Tchokounte, whose aerial qualities have long been a major facet of the team’s play. The midfield looks to have more imagination about it this season. Malik Sellouki blew a little hot and cold last season but was excellent at times, and he will be joined by Julien Maggiotti, who is returning to the club for a second spell after excelling first time around. He was not the same player at Bastia, however, as he has struggled to overcome a serious injury. In a more defensive sense, the midfield looks to have weakened following the departures of the experienced Jordan Adeoti and Jimmy Roye. Although Cyril Mandouki is stepping in, there appears to have been a clear generational change here, with Enzo Montet and Titouan Thomas set to be handed more prominent roles. They looked up to the challenge last season, even if they are not the type of players liable to help Laval to the playoffs. At the back, Laval have cleared out expensive veterans Anthony Goncalves and Edson Seidou but have also seen the potentially devastating Amin Cherni depart. Troubled by injuries in the heart of the defence in pre-season, Laval must hope this is not a sign of things to come else there could be issues. New signing Matteo Commaret is an unknown quantity at this level but Theo Pellenard will be the new defensive rock after arriving in January. Look for wing-backs William Kokolo and Thibault Vargas to play a big role offensively for Laval, with these areas traditionally strong for the Bretons.