The preparation of the ASSE team, led by Eirik Horneland, intensified following the resumption of training less than a month after the end of the school holidays. The players have already started a series of friendly matches, notably against Carouge and Troyes, allowing the coach to give some time to a staff in the midst of reconstruction. This preparation phase, which began on June 19 with an internship at Chambon-sur-Lignon, is crucial to standardize the physical level of all players, some having returned later from their international selections. Horneland stresses the importance of this period to integrate new players and reaffirm the team’s game project.

The Norwegian coach insists on the need for in-depth work on the tactical aspect during these friendly matches, especially against Carouge. It includes a workforce review and an adjustment of the game strategies, with a particular focus on improving the game without a balloon, an area where the team needs to advance compared to the previous season. Horneland acknowledges the difficulty of the task that awaits the ASSE in League 2, stressing that the relegation was a hard blow for the morale of the team and that it is essential to rebuild a strong collective spirit.

Beyond physical and tactical preparation, summer is seen as a period of mental consolidation and team cohesion. Horneland stresses the importance of winning games early in the season to restore confidence and change the dynamics of the team. He admits that the path will be difficult and more demanding than observers might imagine, but he is determined to work tirelessly so that ASSE can regain its place in League 2.