This Friday, ASSE faces the Servette Genève in Aix-les-Baïns as part of its third summer preparation match. The main challenge for coach Eirik Horneland is to test a new association in central defence, combining Maxime Bernauer and Chico Lamba. After two encouraging victories against Et Star Carouge and Troyes, the team seeks to refine its composition, notably by strengthening the central hinge. Horneland seems to want to quickly integrate Chico Lamba, a young Portuguese defender who arrived from Arouca, into the first team, which implies a tactical adjustment that could impact the role of Maxime Bernauer, who usually holds the title. The experiment on tactical repositioning showed mixed results, requiring a return to a more classic pattern to ensure Bernauer’s serenity, before his thigh injury.

The preparation of ASSE saw the integration of young talents, including Maedine Makhloufi, left side who signed his first professional contract with the club at the end of May. Initially unconvened, Makhloufi seized an opportunity to oppose Chambon-sur-Lignon, where he impressed with his defensive strength, technique and willingness to move forward. With Darling Blaidi and Lassana Traoré potentially in difficulty, Makhloufi could have an opportunity to start the season as a lining of a future recruit at the left side post. His talent is closely followed by the Algerian media, which compile his performances for the national selection of Fennecs.

The arrival of Chico Lamba is part of a policy of developing young talent, and its successful integration could become a key element of the ASSE defensive system. The match against the Servette Geneva will therefore be crucial to assess the first steps of Lamba and Bernauer’s ability to adapt. If this pair works well, it could form the basis of the central hinge. However, other options are being considered, including players like Mickaël Nadé and Beres Owusu. The main objective remains to establish a reliable hinge, while continuing to consolidate the other defensive sectors, waiting for the reinforcements expected during the summer mercato.