RC Lens have announced the appointment of Loïc Fievet as their new manager, the club confirmed on Tuesday. Fievet, aged 38, has signed a contract with the Ligue 1 side that runs until 2028. He replaces Sarah M’Barek, whose departure was announced concurrently.
Fievet’s most recent role was as a youth coach, serving as the head of the under-19 team at Lorient. Prior to that, he managed the N3 side of Valenciennes. This appointment marks his first senior managerial position, though he brings a strong tactical background to the role.
The club’s announcement highlighted a shared passion for Football Manager between Fievet and former Lens manager Will Still, suggesting a similar approach to tactical analysis and game management. Still departed Lens earlier this year to take the managerial position at Stade de Reims.
Lens were recently relegated from the French top flight and finished the season in second division. Fievet’s primary objective will be to secure promotion back to Ligue 1. The club is undergoing a period of transition following the relegation, and the appointment of a young, tactically astute manager signals an intent to rebuild. The timing of M’Barek’s departure reportedly came as a surprise to her, contrasting with Fievet’s awareness of the opportunity. This quick replacement suggests Lens were prepared for a change in leadership.
This appointment could indicate a shift in the club’s strategy, leaning towards a more data-driven and analytically focused approach to football, mirroring the success of Still during his tenure. The long-term contract offered to Fievet demonstrates the club’s faith in his ability to lead the team forward and achieve their promotion aspirations.
