Football Season Guide

Dunkerque stormed to Ligue 2 safety in the latter part of last season thanks to an excellent run of form that justified the board’s radical decisions early in the campaign. The decision to bring in Luis Castro as head coach was a controversial call, and although these misgivings appeared justified early in his reign, following the January transfer window, Dunkerque came alive. During the second half of last term, USLD lost only four games, and they will be seeking to build on that momentum to establish themselves as a Ligue 2 side. Dunkerque’s success last season was based around a big turnover of the playing staff and some smart loan moves, and this flux has continued with the northern team. In particular, losing goalkeeper Mohamed Kone back to Le Havre should be considered a blow as he was excellent. Otherwise, the players who have gone are largely expendable, even the experienced Jean-Philippe Gbamin, who had fitness issues. Dunkerque’s recruitment has come largely from the lower leagues in France, including Reims B player Anto Sekongo, Saint-Priest winger Marco Essimi and Concareau’s Alec Georgen, or from abroad. It was a strategy that worked last January and one that the club clearly has some confidence in. One of the more interesting signings is goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims. The shot-stopper stepped up at Rodez in an emergency loan role last season and will be seeking to have a similar impact in what might be his first No.1 role. The defence, meanwhile, is not being built from scratch. The key players from last season remain, including impressive right-back Benjaloud Youssouf and promising central defender Nehemiah Fernandez, who was injury prone last term. There is, however, a lack of obvious depth in midfield, particularly in a defensive role. It is unclear who might be the natural defensive player in the centre. Rayan Ghrieb, meanwhile, will be seeking to regain his spot as the go-to creative force, which he lost last term. Up front, the experienced Gaetan Courtet was critical last season. His goals kept Dunkerque up and he remains a dangerous force even at 35. Kay Tejan is an interesting addition after scoring seven in Poland’s top flight last season. On paper, this is a strong addition.