Adrien Thomasson: RC Lens is Stronger Than Last Year

This season, RC Lens has undergone significant transformations, both in management and on the field. To discuss these changes, captain Adrien Thomasson shared his insights in an exclusive interview, arranged with the assistance of LFP Media`s international department.

Did Lens` season begin more favorably than you anticipated?

I view it as quite positive. Considering all the changes – the manager, staff, and players – I expected a challenging start to the season. However, overall, our results and quality of play have been rather good! My main regret is the home match against Lyon, where I believe we deserved at least a draw. Playing PSG at the Parc des Princes, despite an encouraging performance, resulted in a loss, which is understandable given they are the league`s top team, especially away. We have many upcoming matches, and I`m optimistic we can maintain our momentum.

With key players like Facundo Medina, Neil El Aynaoui, and Andy Diouf departing this summer, did you worry about Lens` potential struggles?

Absolutely, yes. We certainly had doubts because we lost vital players, both young talents and experienced individuals. Our goal is always to be competitive and ambitious, so we questioned how this season would unfold and if the new recruits could fill the void left by their predecessors. In this regard, the club did an excellent job; we now have a competitive squad that, in my opinion, surpasses last year`s.

What makes you confident that Lens is a stronger team this season?

I believe we possess greater balance. We now have player profiles, particularly in attack, that were missing last season. I see us as a more complete team, though we must continue to prove it on the field.

Overall, do you sense a decrease in ambition at Lens following the recent departures?

Honestly, no. The changes in sporting management have instilled a fresh momentum and a palpable positive energy from key figures. While they haven`t set explicit targets like finishing in the top six or seven, the club`s ambition is clearly felt throughout.

Florian Thauvin is one of your new additions. How beneficial is it to have a World Cup winner in the squad?

It`s truly magnificent. As someone from his generation – we`re the same age – I feel fortunate to play alongside a World Cup champion who has experienced significant career moments. He brings valuable experience and composure; in tough situations, he remains calm. His dribbling, technical skill, and ability to be decisive are evident, though he`s still adapting, having only arrived a month ago. I`m confident he`ll have a fantastic season with us.

Beyond player changes, there`s also a new manager. What impact has Pierre Sage had?

He has already contributed immensely, introducing considerable rigor to weekly training and establishing clear lifestyle rules. Tactically, I believe he offers a distinct approach compared to last season. Naturally, it takes time, especially with several new players, but his ideas are sound, and his serenity and composure during matches are extremely beneficial.

How would you describe the differences between Pierre Sage and his predecessor, Will Still?

They are quite different. Will Still, being closer to our age, naturally fostered a more pronounced sense of camaraderie. However, Sage, with his greater experience – being ten years older – brings a simpler, perhaps more established, management style. He also importantly maintains strong relationships with players who might feature less frequently.

What was your reaction to Will Still`s unexpected departure at the end of last season?

It came as a significant shock, as we only learned of it on the final day of the season. It was definitely unexpected. Naturally, it was disappointing because, despite all the challenges that season, we finished eighth, which was close to our maximum potential. However, these are decisions beyond our control. He explained his reasons, and as someone who seeks to understand decisions, I respect his choice. In football, changes are almost annual; true stability is rare, and you simply have to adapt. Despite everything, I believe we had a successful season with him.

You`ve consistently played a crucial role, irrespective of the manager. What is your current position within the squad?

I now possess greater experience, being closer to the end of my career than the beginning. I strive to pass on my knowledge to younger players and contribute my natural calmness. I`ve also discovered a pitch position that suits me perfectly: playing slightly deeper, linking attack and defense. This role truly aligns with my abilities, and wearing the captain`s armband adds further responsibility.

Regarding your new, deeper midfield role, what makes you prefer playing there?

This role enables me to be more involved with the ball, helping to build up play, while also having the freedom to push forward and enter the box from deeper positions. My `box-to-box` style perfectly matches my physical attributes, allowing me to make repeated high-intensity runs. I believe it`s a position that genuinely suits me, and most importantly, I enjoy it more – even the defensive aspect of winning back possession is something I find satisfying.

Considering your leadership, have the recent departures of prominent, experienced players prompted you to be more vocal in the dressing room?

That`s a good question. I`ve never been the type of player to be very vocal or shout much in the dressing room; it`s just not my personality. Instead, I aim to lead by example on the pitch, in training, and through my overall attitude. I always try to remain positive, as younger players often observe how older players conduct themselves. So, while I won`t typically be the one addressing the team in the dressing room, I strive to set an example in other ways.

Reflecting on your career, what motivated your move from Strasbourg to Lens?

It was a tough decision at the time because I had spent four and a half years at Strasbourg and felt comfortable with the city and the club. However, we were 19th in Ligue 1, and leaving a club facing relegation uncertainty was hard. Mentally, it wasn`t straightforward, but I viewed Lens as a significant step up. They were second in January when I joined, though there was no guarantee they`d maintain that position. Having watched them play extensively, their passion and history truly resonated with me. I clearly saw a path for sporting progression, which ultimately led to my decision to join.

Upon joining Lens, you almost immediately played in European competitions. Is returning to that level still a primary ambition?

Personally, yes, I absolutely harbor that ambition. It`s a key motivator for me – what drives me every day is the pursuit of European qualification. However, I`m also realistic about our economic situation and the presence of several strong teams in the league. While I consider these factors, it`s crucial to always be ambitious in your career and in life. Therefore, I hope we finish as high as possible. We recognize the difficulty of every match; apart from PSG, who have won their first four, the league is incredibly tight (e.g., we have six points, the second team ten, and the third nine). This emphasizes the importance of consistent good runs. As our manager says, avoiding back-to-back losses is vital, and we`re eager to rebound strongly this weekend.

Having played in Ligue 1 for ten years, what significant changes have you observed during that period?

There have been numerous changes, I could discuss them at length! We now see many more young players; when I started, it was rare for a young player to feature in Ligue 1, which reflects current economic realities. Technically, I believe there`s been a decline. Ten years ago, in my opinion, players were more technical than they are today. Conversely, the physical demands and intensity have significantly increased. While there were excellent players before, the game felt slower and less rapid than it is now. Today`s young players are explosive, quick, and dynamic, which drives higher match intensity. Tactically, many more teams now aim to play out from the back, rarely clearing their lines. Goalkeepers take short goal kicks to central defenders, whereas I recall a time when goal kicks meant everyone pushed up for a `kick and rush` style, much like in England 15-20 years ago.

In your view, is football, as a sport, generally becoming less technical, favoring physical attributes and intensity instead?

Precisely. While it`s great to see young players on the field, their technical development seems to be less emphasized, with a greater focus on physical training. This explains why today`s games feature high intensity and frequent turnovers. However, I remain convinced that technically gifted players, of whom there are still many, continue to have a vital role.

Regarding the imminent derby against Lille, do you believe the legendary Bollaert atmosphere could be a deciding factor?

This is a special match, especially when we play at home. We know the atmosphere with our supporters will be electric. As players, the rivalry with Lille is strong, and we are determined to win for ourselves, the club, and our fans. We anticipate a challenging game and hope it will be equally tough for them. For us, Bollaert provides an undeniable boost. I often hear from friends on opposing teams that they feel apprehensive playing in Lens, at Bollaert. Mentally, it`s a significant advantage, and we leverage that to win as many matches as possible.

With only one year left on your current contract, do you aim to stay at Lens?

My primary ambition is to genuinely enjoy my daily life, which I am currently doing. I`m not looking too far ahead regarding what the season might bring. The most crucial thing is to play, to enjoy the game, and then we`ll see what happens. Discussions with the club will naturally occur at some point, but I`m not stressing about it. I have faith in life and the future, so there are no concerns on that front.

You previously expressed a desire to play abroad someday. Is that still your ambition?

Playing abroad has always been an appealing prospect for me. However, I wouldn`t move just for the sake of it – I already travel abroad for holidays! (laughs) We`ll have to see what opportunities arise. While I`ve always wanted to, I can`t dismiss the possibility of spending my entire career in France, specifically in Ligue 1. I`m open to all possibilities and not closing any doors. We`ll simply wait and see.