Will Still has been appointed as the new manager of Auxerre, marking his third stint in France’s Ligue 1 after previous spells with Reims and Lens. The move comes after a challenging period with Southampton in the Premier League, where he was relieved of his duties after just thirteen league matches.
Still spoke candidly about his experience at Southampton, describing it as a deeply difficult time. According to an interview with L’Équipe, he found the intensity of the Premier League all-consuming, stating that being removed from the position left him feeling “useless.” He revealed he didn’t watch any football for two months following his dismissal, needing time to disconnect and reassess.
To cope with the setback, Still embarked on a series of travels, visiting New York, Australia, Iceland, and Portugal. He admitted that returning to Southampton so quickly after such a draining experience was a mistake, as he felt unprepared. The Belgian manager previously built a reputation as a promising tactical innovator during his time at Reims, guiding them to a strong finish in Ligue 1.
Beyond football, Still recounted an earlier life experience, failing an exam to join the police force. He described facing questions about his national identity, being perceived as both too British and not fully Belgian. This experience led him to identify as a “citizen of the world.”
Auxerre will hope Still can replicate his previous successes in Ligue 1 and steer the club away from relegation trouble. The appointment represents a fresh start for both parties, with Still eager to prove himself after his Premier League setback and Auxerre seeking stability under new leadership. This move signifies a return to familiar territory for the manager, offering him an opportunity to rebuild his career in a league where he has already demonstrated his capabilities.
