Since 15 July, rumours about Joshua Duffus’s arrival in the ASSE have come true. The English striker has been in training for nearly a fortnight and even played in the last friendly match against Paris FC, despite the 0-3 defeat. If his arrival seems imminent, officialization is delayed due to administrative complications related to Brexit, including the issuance of a work permit. The club, aware of these difficulties, took precautions to ensure the legal coverage of the player, while maintaining a cautious optimism about his signature. Duffus, free of any contract after his departure from Brighton, chose to join ASSE despite requests from other clubs in England and Germany. His arrival would be a major asset for coach Eirik Horneland, especially with the absences for the start of the season of Djylian N’Guessa and Lucas Staas.
The month of August will be crucial for ASSE, marked by a plan to reduce the number of staff since June. Several departures have already been made, but other files, such as those of Yvann Mason, Benjamin Bouchouaari and Dylan Batubinsika, stretch. The situation of Zuriko Davitashvili, Lucas Staassin and Pierre Ekwah is particularly delicate, these three players wishing to leave the club while ASSE wants to keep them. Their uncertainty could affect the atmosphere and preparation of the team. The club must find quick and competent replacements to fill the gaps left by these potential departures, including targeting midfielders and laterals.
Recent performances in a friendly match, including the heavy defeat against the Paris FC and defensive weaknesses against the Servette, have highlighted a lack of depth and maturity of the team. The technical staff is aware of this situation and must act quickly to stabilize the workforce and fill gaps. The month of August, with its four major games, will largely determine the course of the season. The ASSE has financial resources, but must be prudent and effective in order to succeed in this decisive period and boost the team’s momentum towards the elite.