Seko Fofana, a key architect of Lensoise’s fine season, has confirmed the hopes pinned on him since his time with Manchester City’s youth. In recovery, creativity and result, the happiest Bolert. In addition to his intrinsic qualities, the Ivorian is above all a reliable player. He has rarely been disappointed since his move to Lens in 2020. Before returning to France (he had gone through Lorient’s training center), he had already convinced the Italian public. The Parisian by birth had revealed himself in a Udinese shirt where he had already shown a certain amount of reliability, prompting the Artesians to pay 8.5 million to redeem it.
When he arrived, he quickly took the graft. Frank Hayes rode his rookie at the heart of the midfield as she sparkled with her versatility. In the workforce in which he is the best component, Fofana has taken on his responsibilities. But will it be the same in the capital? At Paris Saint-Germain, expectations will not be the same. Surrounded by Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, Lionel Messi or Marco Verratti, we expect him to be supportive, a man in the shadows. This new role can limit his qualities, even if his varied game still allows him to remain competent.
Seiko Fofana was Lens’s strongman of the season. (A. Rio / Team)
In Ligue 1, few players can claim to have as talent as Renato Sanchez. Even in Paris Saint-Germain. When he revealed himself at Euro 2016 (he was named the competition’s best young player) – and still is today for some – the Portuguese is seen as a player with above-average physical qualities, but technically limited. Just look at his performance with Lille to realize that remark is wrong. The best mastiff in the knockout stages of the Champions League first leg against Chelsea, his absence in the comeback has been detrimental to your luck. A complete player, the Lisbon player also has the advantage of being able to help out in one aspect, which is an important asset.
Transferring from Benfica to Bayern Munich for €35 million in 2016, Sanchez failed to win in Bavaria, due to spotty performances. He found stability in the North in a lower club. However, it frustrated Lille’s supporters as it lit up the evenings of Pierre Moroy. Frequently injured, he has never played more than 25 matches in the tournament in three Ligue 1 seasons, and that fact may slow Paris’ desire to recruit the 2016 golden boy.
Renato Sanchez at the end of his contract in 2023 (B. Crémel / L’Équipe)
Christophe Galtier has just been appointed coach of PSG, and he can take two goalkeepers Thuram in his bags. Fired into the elite by Patrick Vieira, the Reggio Emilia native has exploded this year on orders from the new Parisian coach. In the midfielder or sometimes on the left side, he was able to maintain the confidence of the technician. Son Lillian, 21, has the advantage of having plenty of room for improvement ahead of him. He can take another step in a new one while maintaining a certain continuity with Galtier.
The OGC Nice player has a flaw in his attributes. If its potential makes you drool, it seems Sanches and Fofana are more than willing to combine Ile-de-France 11 right away. The young midfielder’s inexperience calls against him compared to the other two tracks. Especially since with Aiglons it took time to become one of the best players on the team. In Paris, he will not have the same time to win, and will have to quickly respond to the expectations of the club.
Khephren Thuram started pre-season with Team Nice. (F. Porco/Team)
