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Expert insight from France
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Three of the top-five leagues get underway this weekend, and whilst more of the spotlight will be on the Premier League and LaLiga's return, it could be a very interesting season over in France. Ligue 1 has become a division synonymous with young talent and another season of drama, intrigue, and emerging stars awaits. From Paris Saint-Germain’s perennial title ambitions to the chasing pack of Marseille, Monaco, and Lyon, the new campaign is set against a backdrop of fresh signings, tactical overhauls, and storylines that stretch from the Parc des Princes to the smallest provincial grounds.
With managerial changes, breakout prospects, and a summer of high-profile transfers reshaping the competitive landscape, every club enters the season with something to prove. Drawing on the expertise of Transfermarkt’s team in France, we break down the key questions. Who will be PSG's biggest challengers for the title? Which team could surprise a few? Which Ligue 1 player should we look out for? What about the most exciting U21 star? Or a manager that could make some waves? Joachim Durand is Transfermarkt's expert in France and has all that covered.
The big Ligue 1 preview
Who can challenge PSG?
Durand: I would say Monaco, because they have recruited experienced players who were missing last season (Paul Pogba, Eric Dier, Lukas Hradecky) and have so far kept all their best players (Maghnes Akliouche, Mika Biereth, Denis Zakaria). Or Marseille, who have strengthened their squad in a coherent manner, targeting positions that were already identified as weak last season. They have brought in Facundo Medina and Igor Paixão, while retaining the backbone of last season's team.
Surprise team to look out for
Durand: The logical choice would be Strasbourg, who surprised everyone last season and seem even stronger now. But I'm actually going to say Lyon. Despite the departures (Rayan Cherki, Lucas Perri, Alexandre Lacazette) and the fragile economic situation at the club, I don't think they'll have such a bad season. Pre-season preparations have been encouraging and the new signings seem to have settled in well. I can see them fighting for a European place this season, which given the circumstances, would be a good achievement.
A player to watch
Durand: I've got to go for the Monaco striker Biereth. I see him affirming his excellent second half of last season. In the same system (4-4-2), in the same role, and with additional creativity around him (Pogba, Ansu Fati), I can see him getting a load of goals in Ligue 1 this campaign. The other one I would consider is Marseille's Amine Gouiri. He too must confirm his good first half of the season was no fluke. His potential has been obvious for years, manager Roberto De Zerbi likes him a lot and regularly praises his qualities, and he will not lack motivation with the challenges awaiting Marseille this season.
U21 player to watch
Durand: A well-known option in the U21s category would be PSG's Warren Zaïre-Emery. I don't really know if he'll have a successful season, but that's what makes it interesting. After breaking through very quickly and very early, he lost his place in the PSG starting line-up and will have to fight to get it back. He has so much talent so it will be interesting to follow. Otherwise, I would say goalkeeper Mike Penders (on loan from Chelsea), who will have the difficult task of replacing Djordje Petrovic, but is very well thought of.
Manager to watch
Durand: The coach to watch this season in Ligue 1 is undoubtedly Pierre Sage. After admirably turning Lyon around in the 2023/2024 season, taking them from relegation candidates to European qualification, he was sacked last January. This did not go down well with the fans. He signed for Lens this summer. It will be interesting to see if he can achieve the same results at a club other than his adored Lyon.
