Football Season Guide

Ambitious Paris FC seriously risked a return to amateur football in the past campaign as they dwelled in the bottom 3 almost without interruption from week 1 to week 25. It is only thanks to coach René Girard, who was handed the reins of the team in January, and 3 consecutive wins in February that they managed to reach the 17th standing and to avoid whatever troubles in the end. Not bad, considering how poor their attack was. They scored 22 goals overall, only 1 more than the worst attack of the Ligue 2, relegated US Orléans. Their defence, they conceded 40 goals, was just better than the bottom 3. Girard was logically confirmed at the helm of the team, but the squad underwent a major overhaul over the summer. In fact, no less than 20 players were shown the door while at least 15 came in. The squad clearly needed some trimming as it was overly bloated and filled with too much deadwood. Some changes also concerned the starting XI. For instance, the attack was completely renewed with the likes of Armand, Timite and controversial former France international Ménez all being let go. The 3 were responsible for almost the 60% of their goals, 13, and 8 assists. Of all the newcomers, only Guilavogui and Laura were hired to strengthen an attack where internal resources Pitroipa and Diaby Fadiga will be asked to play major roles. On the other hand, Name, coming from newly promoted Pau FC, could be given a starting chance in the midfield, in lieu of the departed Rabiu. Promising Campanini and experienced Belaud will be contending for a role at right-back, a position that never found a steady performer in the past campaign. Paris FC still seem to miss a centre-back as Yohou, another starter to have left, is not properly replaced yet.