The Challenge Espoirs, a competition initiated by the Fédération Française de Football in 2024, returns for the 2025-2026 season with an expanded formula, now welcoming 16 teams against 12 in the first edition. AS Saint-Étienne has been an active participant since 15 September 2025, integrated into Group A alongside renowned clubs such as Olympique Lyonnais, Olympique de Marseille, Monaco and Nice. The main objective of this tournament is to promote the gradual integration of young talent into the professional workforce by providing a competitive and structuring environment. The group phase will run from September 15, 2025 to April 6, 2026, with 7 scheduled matches, including 4 at home. Participation in this challenge is fully part of ASSE’s training project, which aims to give young players from the training centre time to play and prepare for the future of the club. The first two of each group will enter the semifinals, the final of which will take place in May.

In parallel with this competition, AS Saint-Étienne is actively preparing its first day of Ligue 2. After a 2024-2025 season finished in the penultimate place, the team will face Clermont on the 5th day of the championship on 13 September 2025. This meeting, broadcast on beIN Sports, marks the beginning of an intense preparation for the coming season. Coach Eirik Horneland has to deal with a moving force, marked by players pending departure, physical returns and the integration of new recruits. The preparation is therefore complex, but the objective remains clear: aim at the top of the table in League 2.

The preparation of the ASSE for this new season is marked by notable absences during the trainings, including Lucas Staasın, Yvann Mason, Dylan Batubinsika and Benjamin Bouchouaari, whose start is envisaged. However, positive news comes back about the physical recovery of Zuriko Davitashvili and Djyliian N’Guessa, which could be available for the next games. In addition, Makhloufi, Dodote and Mouton returned to the occupational group. The team is intensively training at L’Étrat, juggling tactical preparation, individual management and transfer market uncertainties, with a view to success in Ligue 2 season.