The ASSE took advantage of the first international truce to take stock of its players’ playing time, revealing a solid defensive base with Gautier Larsonneur, Mickaël Nadé, Florian Tardieu and Chico Lamba as pillars, closely followed by Zuriko Davitashvili and other players like Ebenzer Annaan. Some young people and recruits, such as Luan Gadegbeu and Nadir El-Jamali, are gradually gaining playing time, while others, such as Igor Milaidinović and Lassana Traoré, have had more limited appearances. The truce comes at a key moment, allowing the staff to work with a relatively stable workforce, although potential departures are envisaged for some players such as Yvann Mason and Dylan Batubinsika. The team, despite territorial domination, struggles to realize its opportunities in terms of finishing, which raises questions about intensity and creativity in the truth zone.

The draw against Grenoble, albeit disappointing in terms of results, shows the overall strength of ASSE since the start of the season, with 8 out of 12. However, the team struggles to transform its potential into victories, which is seen as a major challenge for the club. Coach Eirik Horneland is always looking for tactical coherence and harmony within the team. With the truce and the end of the mercato, attention is focused on the sports leadership, who will have to make strategic decisions to strengthen the workforce and improve the finish.

A major event marks this period: Benjamin Bouchouari’s imminent departure to the Turkish club in Trabzonspor. After three successful seasons, the Moroccan midfielder signed a contract of 4 million euros, a beautiful financial operation for ASSE. His departure marks the end of a beautiful adventure in Saint-Étienne, where he was appreciated for his commitment and creativity. This decision could encourage management to recruit a joker, like Bardeli, to fill the gap left by his departure. For Bouchouri, this is a promising new challenge in a historic club, with European ambitions.