Saint-Etienne enjoyed their strongest Ligue 1 finish since 2013-14 this term under the shrewd guidance of Jean-Louis Gasset. They profited from the weakness of the ‘bigger’ clubs and produced a consistent campaign that will see them deservedly return to Europe next season, although the departure of their coach is set to pose fresh questions.
The campaign started relatively slowly for Les Verts, who picked up just one win in their first five matches and four from their first 11. By Christmas they were lying fourth, although that was in part because other teams were simply more inconsistent than they were.
They profited immensely from the presence of Wahbi Khazri in an attacking role, with the former Bordeaux man fulfilling a number of different positions in the offensive sector, from false 9 to No.10 and even a winger. This provided his team with excellent flexibility.
Lois Diony was back at the club after a loan spell away and mustered five goals, yet Robert Beric weighed in with an impressive nine. Given his all-round contribution is often limited, it is important he contributes in such a manner when playing.
If Romain Hamouma had a somewhat disappointing season, in part due to a hip injury, Remy Cabella’s displays made up for that as the ex-Newcastle man showed himself to be a very valuable commodity at this level.
The midfield leaned most heavily on Yann M’Vila, who struck up a strong partnership with Ole Selnaes. The Norwegian’s departure in January sparked a dispute between the coach and the board that played a part in Gasset resigning at the end of the season. Valentin Vada stepped in to supplement Youssef Ait Bennasser.
At the back, the addition of Timothee Kolodziejczak proved an excellent addition, in part due to his flexibility as he could play left- or centre-back. When injuries hit late in the season, this was key as it allowed youngster William Saliba to play regularly. The teenager was immense and is now being studied by a host of top clubs.
If Neven Subotic had a poor campaign, Loic Perrin and Mathieu Debuchy were both strong, when fit, while goalkeeper Stephane Ruffier was as reliable as ever.
Gasset’s departure complicates the summer rather for Sainte, and the appointment of his successor is liable to be critical in determining how they perform next term. Indeed, it could well determine which players stay, with M’Vila threatening to depart.
