The AS Saint-Étienne started the season of Ligue 2 2025-2026 with a 3-3 draw against Laval, in a place very frequented by its supporters. The atmosphere was electric, with more than 700 Stéphanois fans present in the Francis-Le-Basser stadium and many jerseys exhibited. This influx is a testament to the club’s continued appeal, which broke a record number of subscribers for the season, with over 20,000 subscriptions sold. The team, led by Eirik Horneland, is entering this new season with the clear goal of finding Ligue 1, a challenge that will require the unwavering support of its supporters, present in all Ligue 2 stadiums.

The outcome of the game against Laval was analyzed by the show “L’After Foot”, with Damien Perquis and Kevin Diaz stressing the importance of the atmosphere in the Ligue 2 stadiums and the motivation of Saint-Étienne players to return to the first division. They also evoke the potential trauma of relegated teams, such as Montpellier, and identify Saint-Étienne as a favourite for the climb, while mentioning possible surprises such as Dunkirk or Troyes. Perquis highlights the investment of management and the strengthening of the recruitment unit as encouraging factors for the coming season, while stressing the need for the team to reduce its concessions.

The ASSE summer mercato is marked by numerous arrivals and departures, and managing several files is currently a priority for management. The future of Lucas Staasın, a Belgian attacker, is particularly monitored, with several clubs such as Paris FC and Wolverhampton interested. Despite a complicated summer preparation due to an injury, Staasın should be available for the next match against Rodez. Coach Eirik Horneland assures that the player will not be sold, except exceptionally high offer, and relies heavily on him for the coming season. Proposals could therefore come to the table of the leaders of the country in the coming weeks.