Philippe Montanier sets the framework from his arrival at AS Saint-Étienne: the promotion to Ligue 1 remains the central ambition, but the key lies in the method. Ahead of a first meeting against Montpellier, the coach observed the recent 3-2 French Cup match in Nice. He notes a solid Hérault team, capable of controlling the tempo of a game. The venue promises to be electric: Geoffroy-Guichard. The moment, decisive: this weekend. The plan, clear: aim for an immediate victory, without sacrificing the balance between play and points. The stake, vital: to revive the collective performance to regain control of the competition.
The message also addresses the stands: the expectation is immense, and the players know it. However, the objective must not become an obsession. It must guide choices, from pressing to managing weak phases. The training week delivered positive signals, with a “fresh and available” group. The challenge remains to turn this energy into concrete effects over 90 minutes. Because, at the Chaudron, every duel weighs heavily and every detail counts. The guiding principle is simple: focus on “how to get there” to secure points, build confidence, and then free up play. This is the roadmap of a team that wants to reconnect with its natural place.
Montanier and the ambition of promotion to Ligue 1: clear course, demanding method
The new coach relies on broad experience, from Real Sociedad to Toulouse via Rennes and Lens. This path feeds a conviction: promotion is won through a clear game framework, strong landmarks, and a clear hierarchy. Thus, off-the-ball principles (block height, pressing landmarks, transitions) prevail to stabilize results in the short term.
At the same time, the offensive animation must remain pragmatic. First, secure the first pass. Then, fix the flanks before seeking depth. Finally, exploit set pieces, a real lever in Ligue 2 as well as in the Cup. This method combines patience and measured verticality. It responds to the primary need: scoring without exposing oneself.
Mentally, the roadmap is just as clear. Match rituals, defined roles, and quick feedback after each game. At this cost, the team concedes less in weak phases and punishes more during strong phases. The course remains immutable: Ligue 1, thanks to controlled progress.
First challenge against Montpellier: reading the 3-2 in Nice and action plan
Montpellier comes from an open match, led 2-0 then overturned. That said, the backbone remains compact, with quick exits and high-placed fullbacks. Consequently: Saint-Étienne must threaten behind the fullbacks, while locking the axis on turnovers.
The tactical grid is organized around clear triggers: press on lateral pass towards the weak side, close inside with a “hunter” midfielder, and attack the second ball zone at 20-25 meters. Moreover, attacking set pieces become a major asset against a defense sometimes shaken on outswinging corners.
Intensity will make the difference. With a bench available early, ASSE can raise the pace at the hour mark. In such competition, performance is also played on managing momentum windows. The first “battle” will be won on occupying the corridors.
To get an idea of recent trends, here is a useful research before kickoff.
Priority challenges for ASSE under Montanier: from short term to sustainable
The staff identified challenges prioritized, from immediate fixes to sustainable progress. The idea is not to pile up projects, but to target those that weigh most on points. Each axis links cause, effect, and measurable solution.
- Solidity off the ball: compact block on loss, reduction of spaces between lines, coordinated pressing.
- Ball exit: secured first pass, fullbacks as outlets, drops in support to break the first line.
- Offensive efficiency: better shooting zones, more presence in the box, quality of last cross.
- Set pieces: varied routines, legal screens, synchronization of runs at first and second posts.
- Managing weak phases: useful fouls, slowed tempo, anticipatory coaching before the 65th minute.
To monitor impact, an indicator table serves as a weekly compass. These landmarks help to link work and result, without losing sight of the final objective: Ligue 1.
| Axis | Key Indicator | Target Threshold | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solidity | xGA per match | ≤ 0.95 | Fewer chances conceded, defensive serenity |
| Pressing | PPDA | ≤ 9.5 | High recoveries, short transitions |
| Creation | Open xG + Set Pieces | ≥ 1.6 | Constant threat, better distributed goals |
| Efficiency | Shots in the box | ≥ 8 | Quality chances, better goals-to-shots ratio |
| Management | Goals conceded 76’-90’ | 0 in 4 matches | Results preserved at end of match |
This framework makes the “conquest” readable: first win data duels, then the score.
Managing pressure and reigniting the Chaudron: expectations, emotions, responses
In Saint-Étienne, history weighs. From the European epic of the 1970s to thrilling cup nights, the culture of football demands audacity and panache. Yet pressure can paralyze. Hence an emotional activation strategy: talk task, not outcome; set three key points per match; ritualize preparation to unleash instinct.
The relationship between supporters and players remains central. Simple signals count: greet the curve, share playing intentions, explain choices. Thus, grumbling turns into energy. When the stadium carries the team, the team gains meters and time. This is tangible on the first restart and density around the ball carrier.
Finally, the bench becomes a lever of unity. Bringing in high-intensity players early creates a training effect. This approach, proven by Montanier elsewhere, serves stability. The final message remains clear: advance step by step to reach the ambition of promotion, without skipping steps.
To gauge the strength of the twelfth man, this research recalls the unique atmosphere of Geoffroy-Guichard.
What is the immediate objective set by Montanier ?
Winning from the next match, gaining points and building confidence, while consolidating a clear game framework.
How does ASSE intend to approach Montpellier ?
With pressing triggered on lateral passes, attacks behind the fullbacks, and a strong emphasis on set pieces.
Why insist on the method rather than solely on promotion ?
Because progress comes through stable routines : off-ball principles, offensive efficiency, and management of weak phases sustainably lead to Ligue 1.
Which indicators are monitored by the staff ?
xGA, PPDA, shots in the box, accumulated xG and goals conceded late in the match, with target thresholds by position.