Stade Reims aims for Ligue 1: Caillot announces big changes!

Stade Reims aims for Ligue 1: Caillot announces big changes!

The return of Stade de Reims to Ligue 1 is the clear goal of President Jean-Pierre Caillot. In a YouTube video message lasting over an hour, he spoke directly to the fans and announced that the club has no plans for a repêchage. Instead, Reims is looking for a new beginning in sport after they ended the previous season in Ligue 2. Caillot reiterated this by clearly outlining his ambitions for next season: “We want to go back to Ligue 1 in the 2025-2026 season!” OneFootball reports.

The reasons for the dramatic changes in the club are complex. Under the leadership of Samba Diawara, who was the main coach responsible for the difficult season, the team experienced a decline in form, securing just 0.78 points per game. Despite these hurdles, the team made it to the final of the Coupe de France, which demonstrated their fighting spirit, even if relegation to Ligue 2 was certain in the end. Now Diawara, who took over as coach after Luka Elsner was fired in February, will return as assistant coach. Caillot praised Diawara as a "great servant of the club" but admitted his time as head coach was not easy. Yahoo Sports confirms this return.

New wind and experienced players

In order to strengthen the team for the coming season, Stade de Reims plans to sign experienced players who will bring back the missing leadership on the pitch. President Caillot named Mory Gbane and Jordi Siebatcheu as possible leaders who could help the team gain a foothold in Ligue 2. He also stressed that some players with Ligue 1 profile could leave the club, but this should not have a negative impact on the current season as they want to fully concentrate on the challenges ahead.

Additionally, Caillot made it clear that he rejected rumors of a possible sale of the club and ruled out a separation from general manager Mathieu Lacourt. This stability within the club's management should help to set the course for a successful future.

The change of coach and the search for a successor

The coaching position is in flux as a new coach is sought following the dismissal of Will Still, who was the youngest coach in one of Europe's five major leagues at the time of his dismissal. Still took over the team in October 2022, but was not allowed to continue to assume responsibility as head coach due to his A license. His record of 1.46 points per game in 65 games was recognized by the club management. The search for Diawara's successor is already underway, and according to information, Karel Geraerts is expected to take on this role. This decision will be officially announced in the coming days Transfermarkt reports.

In summary, the coming season will be a crucial phase for Stade de Reims. With clear goals and a personnel realignment, the club not only hopes for promotion, but also a return to its old strength in the highest French league. The focus is now on the next steps and the necessary transfers to put this plan into action. Fans can hope that their beloved team will be able to return to Ligue 1.