French defender Paul Joly, aged 25, is poised to embark on the first international chapter of his football career.
According to reports from L`Équipe on Monday, AJ Auxerre has reached an agreement to loan the defender to FC Kaiserslautern, a club competing in the German second division, for the upcoming season. The deal also includes an option for Kaiserslautern to make the transfer permanent.
Joly`s departure marks the end of a five-year tenure with the Burgundy-based club, during which he gained experience in both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. He proved to be an indispensable member of Christophe Pélissier’s squad, notably making 26 domestic appearances and playing a pivotal role in their successful promotion to France`s top tier in the 2023-24 season. His exceptional form during this title-winning campaign led to his inclusion in the Ligue 2 Team of the Year.
In that same remarkable season, Auxerre also boasted the league`s most robust defense, conceding a mere 36 goals. Joly now joins FC Kaiserslautern, a club with a storied past, including four Bundesliga titles. Under the stewardship of their new manager Torsten Lieberknecht, Kaiserslautern is setting its sights on returning to the pinnacle of German football, the Bundesliga, following a considerable absence from the top flight.
