ASSE

Before a decisive clash against Troyes (Saturday, 8pm), ASSE is not bothered by the physical condition of its players. Another element could disrupt the Greens.

This is a detail that could weigh heavily. Three days before the summit clash between ASSE and ESTAC, an element disrupts the preparation of the Greens: the appointment of referee Antoine Valnet. A name that doesn’t bring back good memories in the Forez.

The numbers speak for themselves. In four matches at Geoffroy-Guichard, the man in black has a very unfavorable record for ASSE: only one victory to three defeats! A worrying ratio when approaching such a crucial meeting in the promotion race.

In detail, the only bright spot dates back to a 2-1 victory against Annecy, with goals from Sissoko and Cardona. But for the rest, the picture is much darker. The Greens have lost three times, always by the narrowest margin. Frustrating defeats against Paris FC, Nimes Olympique, and USBCO, on January 31 last.

A particularly striking defeat, as it was part of the chaotic end of Horneland’s era, still fresh in the memories of the Saint-Etienne supporters. Even if arbitration doesn’t determine everything, this negative series is enough to create a climate of distrust around this appointment. For Philippe Montanier, already focused on the sporting stakes, this additional factor is not ideal.

The coach of ASSE knows that this match against Troyes can weigh heavily in the fight for promotion to Ligue 1. And in this type of meeting, every detail counts: managing the low points, offensive efficiency, but also the refereeing decisions. Without falling into paranoia, it’s hard to ignore such a marked statistic.

At Geoffroy-Guichard, Valnet has never really brought luck to the Greens. In this context, emotional management will be crucial. The Greens will have to stay focused on their game, without being disturbed by the environment or refereeing decisions. But one thing is certain: the appointment of Antoine Valnet adds an extra layer of tension to an already crucial match.

AS Saint-Etienne’s end-of-season schedule: – 04/24: ASSE-Troyes (32nd round of Ligue 2) – 05/02: Rodez-ASSE (33rd round of Ligue 2) – 05/09: ASSE-Amiens (34th round of Ligue 2) – 05/12: Ligue 2 playoff (4th against 5th) – 05/15: Ligue 2 playoff (3rd against winner of 4th-5th) – 05/21: L1-L2 promotion playoffs first leg – 05/24: L1-L2 promotion playoffs second leg