Great start with the results and congrats on Story of the Month! 

Your ‘slow’ posts are way quicker than my old story attempts used to be. I'd post ‘month-by-month’ updates and some of them would take longer than a real life month to produce.

You're probably right. I'll come back when it's actually woth. 1 post every other week would mostly be match analysis and commentary rather than actual storytelling.

Thanks a lot!

Honestly I never thought about that, as it was never a real FM story. 0 minute of gameplay… I was happy to see people were actually reading it 🙂

But now I will really slow down and enjoy the game a bit, and come back with the next one when there's something to tell!

Winter Is Coming

Whatever I said earlier, I just can't seem to stop. No matter what, if the whole season goes on like this, I'll have a heart attack instead of Julien. We're on a real rollercoaster, which seems to have taken us to incredible heights, but now, although at first glance we’re still high up, in reality we’re plunging unstoppably into the depths. 

August brought two more wins:

Julien Gauthier’s side started strong—with a convincing 2–0 victory over Concarneau, followed by an impressive 2–1 away win at Sochaux.

Match Of The Moth:

Sochaux, one of the French third division’s strongest sides, were stunned by Quevilly Rouen, who showed outstanding resolve in a real test of fighting spirit. Despite falling behind early, Quevilly Rouen turned the match around with goals from Samoura and Njiké, and outperformed Sochaux in decisiveness—6 shots on target to Sochaux’s 2, even though possession and total shots were almost identical. This hard-fought 2-1 win proved Quevilly Rouen’s ability to compete with the best under pressure, passing their biggest exam of grit this season.

With this result, Gauthier’s team stood at the top of the table with a perfect record after four matches. Only Caen were able to keep pace. The performance of QRM—a team mostly made up of young players—surprised everyone. Perhaps even the fans at Stade Robert Diochon, could hardly believe their eyes seeing the team’s outstanding run.

On the last day of the transfer window, QRM was approached by the agent of 16-year-old Wassim Sloma. Julien hadn’t planned any more signings, but PSG’s youngster had great abilities, could play in multiple positions, and was signed completely free on loan until the end of the season.

September – flying high… then the setback

QRM seemed to keep soaring under Julien’s guidance. The match against Paris 13 was originally scheduled for early September, but with four of our key players (including first-choice goalkeeper Djoco) called up for international duty, we opted to postpone it. In hindsight, that was a decision to regret. When the match finally took place, Paris 13 Atlético outclassed us—we suffered a heavy defeat and reality hit hard.

For Julien, these moments highlighted the unpredictability of football, and reminded him of his own days as a player—when a single injury could flip a season upside down. After the Paris 13 defeat, he spent a rare quiet evening with his family, seeking warmth and perspective in his daughter Camille's laughter and the playful scolding of little Louis. Football can bruise egos, but family brings healing.

Match Of The Month

This match carried extra significance for everyone involved, as both teams play their home games at the same stadium, turning the contest into a true city derby. QRM dominated the encounter, registering 21 shots and 7 on target compared to just 8 and 2 for FCR, and forced 11 corners. Despite nearly even possession, QRM’s attacking intent paid off early, with Njiké scoring the decisive goal in the 15th minute. The victory not only gave QRM bragging rights in the city but showcased their strength in one of the season’s most emotionally charged fixtures. QRM maintained their perfect record, while Rouen remained at the very bottom of the league table.

October – a rollercoaster month

We drew 1–1 at home to Châteauroux, then snatched a dramatic last-minute win at Bourg-Péronnas—Bakali striking in the 91st minute. A confident 2–1 display followed against Stade Briochin, followed by a resounding 4–0 Coupe de France win over AS Berck, our attacking play in full flow. But joy turned to frustration with a narrow 0–1 loss to Orléans—a match that could have put us top.

Match Of The Month:

This clash between league leaders Orléans and second-placed QRM lived up to its billing as a top-of-the-table battle. Orléans edged the narrow victory thanks to Sylla’s first-half goal, holding off QRM’s persistent attacks—QRM fired 17 shots, 7 on target, but couldn’t find an equalizer. Orléans’ superior possession and set piece threat ensured they stayed at the summit of the division, but QRM remained hot on their heels in second place after a closely contested match.

It was after the Orléans match that Julien confided to his assistant: “Results matter, but it’s nights like these when you learn who you really are.” It was a hard-fought battle, but the Quevilly players left the pitch with their heads held high.

November – cup action and loss of form

A home draw with Caen (2–2) was followed by an easy 3–0 cup win at non-league side Frontignan, but then came the real setback—a harsh 2–5 defeat against Caen at the end of the month, brutally exposing our defensive weaknesses.

By this point, it was clear that the squad was very short—Julien had basically relied on just 15 players up until mid-October. Here, however, he had no choice but to change the team around, and those who came in for the usual starters rarely managed to make a lasting impact.

Match Of The Month

This match turned into a high-scoring spectacle between Caen and QRM, highlighting both teams’ attacking intent. Despite QRM matching Caen in shots and expected goals, Caen’s dominance in possession and clinical finishing—especially from Botella, who scored a hat-trick—proved decisive. QRM managed to equalize quickly after falling behind, but struggled to keep pace as Caen pulled away in the second half. Ultimately, Caen’s 5-2 win showed their class and depth, while QRM’s effort and resilience couldn’t quite overcome the home side’s superiority.

With this, the 8th round also marked QRM's exit from the cup.

Defeat stung, but it also brought memories of previous battles—Julien knew the pain of falling short, but also the value of starting again.

December – losing control

A 0–1 loss away to Versailles and a 1–1 home draw with Valenciennes made it clear: our early-season performances kept us in the race. We are still in a good position in the league, but our current form was deeply concerning.

Match Of The Month

QRM dominated the match statistically, firing 20 shots and generating a much higher xG than their opponents, but failed to turn their advantage into victory. After conceding early, they pushed relentlessly and finally found the equalizer late on through Sylva. Both sides finished with five shots on target and nearly equal possession, yet QRM will feel frustrated not to claim all three points, given their attacking control and pressure throughout the game. The draw keeps them in contention, but highlights the need for greater efficiency in front of goal.

Julien’s diary entry from the break summed it up: “Every year, football teaches humility. This winter, more than ever, I’ll need to learn and adapt.”

On the surface, the league table looks excellent. The reality, however, is that it’s important not to forget: we started the year with six straight wins, but in the nine matches since then, our record is only two wins, four draws, and three losses.

Given the team’s recent form, Julien could hardly be satisfied. Results were slipping, and with each match he felt the weight of expectation grow heavier on his shoulders. Even his trademark calm was tested before the winter break, as sleepless nights turned into restless team meetings and long drives home from the stadium—always replaying in his mind what he could change, how to reignite belief.

The first half of the season saw Achille Anani emerge as the team’s top scorer, netting 8 goals in 17 appearances from 61 shots—a true talisman up front. Tony Njiké followed with 6 vital goals from midfield, constantly driving the team forward. Ibrahima Samoura contributed 4 goals and significant attacking threat with 44 shots. Kembo Diliwidi proved to be a super-sub, scoring 3 times in 14 appearances, most of them from the bench. Lenny Pirringuel and Jonathan Bakali added depth with 3 and 2 goals respectively. Thibault Campanini provided consistency at the back with 18 appearances. 

Julien felt that reinforcements were needed, but it didn’t seem realistic. Before the January transfer window, it would have been ideal to extend the contracts of at least the key players, but that too was a tough challenge. The club had already slightly overspent on wages, and there was almost zero budget available for signings.

Coaching transformed Julien’s life in ways he never anticipated. On the pitch, success was no longer only about his own performance, but about balancing 25 unique personalities, motivations, and stories. Many nights he stayed late at the training ground, taking notes, analyzing videos, or wandering alone around the stadium, reflecting on how to help his young players grow and pull through tough periods. The joy of each victory ran deeper than before; the sting of defeat lingered longer, knowing all responsibility fell on his shoulders.

Julien grew a lot these months. He learned to make tough decisions, communicate effectively with both his players and staff, and keep the team united through setbacks. He often took the team’s mistakes as his own, but as weeks passed, he realized patience and empathy were just as vital as tactical insight. He developed his own leadership style—blending French creativity and resilience, German precision, and English determination. Every day taught him something new, from subtle tactical shifts to how he could be a role model for his squad in difficult moments. This half-year made him not only a stronger coach, but also a more confident person.

And now, as I see, I have a whole lot of reading to catch up on.

See you next at the end of  the season!

Aiming High

Much Better Than Expected

The family Christmas was truly wonderful this year—Camille, Louis, and Julien hung decorations together, swapped old stories, shared gifts, the smell of mulled wine brought real peace into the house for a change. Julien was genuinely happy to be with his loved ones, but he could only manage to relax for a day or two; his mind kept racing back to the QRM’s slump, always searching for solutions, pacing restlessly at night, replaying possible scenarios in his head.

January 2026 - Before it even started

Despite his best efforts, Julien was unable to extend the contracts of any of his expiring players—every negotiation stalled, as financial constraints and players’ ambitions got in the way. To make matters worse, Lenny Pirringuel, our influential 22-year-old central midfielder, became the symbol of what might be the next chapter for QRM. Known for his technical skill and his ability to drive the team with tireless work rate and flair, Pirringuel was central to many of our most promising attacks. Despite Julien’s persistent efforts, no contract extension could be agreed, and news broke that Lenny had signed a deal with Santa Clara in Portugal’s top division. Losing a player of his caliber and potential is a blow that will be felt well beyond the pitch. Luckily, he only leaves at the and of the season.

Julien knew the departure of Pirringuel would leave a significant void in QRM’s midfield, so he immediately began planning for the future. His strategy was to integrate Wassim Slama, the energetic and promising loanee from PSG, ever more into the squad’s rotation—hoping that the club could secure him for at least another season. Alongside Slama, Julien placed his faith in Noah Gomes, a talented youngster promoted from the academy to the senior team over the summer. Gomes, with his intelligence and technical skills, was seen not only as a solution for the immediate future but as a potential cornerstone for the next generation of QRM. The transitional period would be a challenge, but Julien was determined to blend experience and youth, ensuring that the team’s identity remained strong through change.

He was determined to inject more goal-scoring threat into his team—but with the club’s finances restricting any potential transfers, he had to look for solutions within his own squad. Recognizing the versatility and finishing ability of Achille Anani, who had been the team’s top scorer in the autumn as a central striker, he made the bold decision to move Anani to the right wing. This tactical shift allowed Julien to deploy Kembo Diliwidi, a dynamic young winger with natural striker instincts, in the central forward role. The hope was that Diliwidi’s pace and movement up front, combined with Anani’s experience and goal threat from wide, would create a more unpredictable and potent attack—even without the luxury of new signings.

January 2026 - Getting better

The new year offered a glimmer of hope, with Julien returning to training energized by memories of a joyful family Christmas. Soon enough, his mind was dominated by tactical questions, selection headaches and dreams of rescuing QRM’s faltering form. The Villefranche match seemed a perfect start—Anani’s early goal gave the team confidence, but they couldn’t hold out for the win, settling for a frustrating 1–1 draw that felt like two points dropped rather than one gained.

Dijon brought defensive solidity but little attacking spark, ending in a goalless stalemate. At Concarneau, however, the team finally found their stride, controlling the match and securing a much-needed 1–0 away win through Sylva’s goal. Julien praised his defenders in the press and privately congratulated the squad for their focus, feeling that the team’s spirit was returning after a difficult winter—though he knew how fragile confidence could be in football.

February 2026 - Dreaming Again

February kicked off in style as QRM showed intensity and purpose, dispatching Sochaux 2–0 with goals from Sylva and Njiké. The tactical tweaks Julien introduced paid off, and for a brief moment, he allowed himself to believe that the worst was behind them. The match at Paris 13 Atlético proved to be a rollercoaster, but QRM’s attacking flair came through in a thrilling 3–2 win, lifting the side back into contention in the top three and earning admiration from fans and pundits alike.

Still, not every week brought joy. The home fixture against Rouen saw Samoura score early but a lack of concentration cost the team a win, with the match finishing 1–1. Aubagne away followed a similar script—Anani netted, but QRM’s inability to kill off games saw another draw. Julien’s post-match notes grew longer and more analytical as he searched for ways to turn single points into threes.

March 2026 - Still in the mix

March began with renewed optimism as QRM overwhelmed Le Puy, dominating possession and creativity to seal a 3–0 home win. Diliwidi and Anani spearheaded a display that showcased the squad’s quality, with Julien’s confidence visibly growing on the touchline. By mid-month, at Châteauroux, QRM fought to a hard-earned 1–1 draw, Diliwidi once again proving dangerous in front of goal.

The Bourg-Péronnas match was a cagey affair, but Sylva headed in the decisive goal to secure another satisfying 1–0. Yet football refuses to be predictable: Stade Briochin handed QRM a frustrating 1–0 defeat away, halting their momentum. Julien spent long hours reviewing footage, feeling pride despite the lost game, as his team went unbeaten for almost 3 months.

April 2026 - Wins Against The Big Boys

At the beinning of April Orléans were 1st, Quevilly-Rouen 2nd and Caen 3rd. 

Orléans at home saw QRM’s attacking rhythm return, Njiké and Sylva starring in a comprehensive 3–0 victory. The chemistry Julien had worked so hard to encourage in training finally showed itself on the pitch, with quick passing and energetic pressing. The trip to Caen was a stern test, but Diliwidi’s clinical finishing delivered a crucial 2–1 win, strengthening QRM’s case for a top finish.

At this point Julien's side were sitting top of the table, followed by Orléans and Caen.

In the month’s closing match against Versailles, despite Diliwidi’s late goal, defensive lapses led to a 1–2 defeat. Julien closed out April feeling the weight of every point lost and gained, aware that the final stretch of the season would demand max focus—from himself as much as from his players.

Orléans back on top, QRM 2nd, Caen 3rd.

May 2026 - Job Done

Valenciennes away delivered high drama: Anani’s two goals rescued a 2–2 draw in a match that swung both ways. Back in front of their home crowd, QRM edged Villefranche with the help of an own goal and a 93rd minute goal from Noah Gomes.

With the 2–1 home victory over Villefranche, QRM mathematically secured second place and clinched promotion—an achievement that instantly lifted the weight of an entire season off Julien’s shoulders. As the final whistle blew, he let out a rare, unguarded smile, overcome by both pride and relief. All the late nights, the tactical rethinks, and the faith placed in his reshuffled squad were rewarded in that moment. For Julien, the promotion wasn’t just about moving up a division; it was about proving to himself and to the club that perseverance and adaptability truly pay off. The celebratory hugs and chants from the stands made him feel, finally, that he belonged.

The final game against Fleury was all about composure and unity. Campanini and Mvukana found the net, sealing a comfortable 2–0 win to close the campaign on a high note. Orléans also won, so QRM finished 2nd.

The statistics reveal just how crucial certain players were to QRM’s promotion push. Achille Anani finished the season as top scorer with 13 goals in 33 appearances, taking nearly 100 shots—his potency in front of goal was unmatched. Tony Njiké contributed an impressive 8 goals from midfield with consistent attacking output, while young Kembo Diliwidi stepped up in the spring, netting 10 times in 29 matches(of which he only started 10). Wassim Slama, Kapokyeng Sylva, and Ibrahima Samoura added valuable goals and attacking drive, sharing responsibility across the team. The defense and midfield, from Campanini’s reliability to Djoco’s steady presence in goal, held the team together in tight matches. Most notably, the balance between experienced leaders and emerging young talent like Slama and Gomes was vital for QRM’s sustained momentum and ultimate success.

To be honest, the season isn’t quite over yet—Caen still have a playoff to play—but there’s no time to wait. QRM only has four players under contract for next year, which means Julien's off-season has to start immediately. The board did their bit, raising the wage budget by £17,000 and giving him £875,000 for new signings. Luckily, besides Pirringuel’s confirmed move, no one else has left (so far).

Truthfully, as we approached the finish line, I actually found myself hoping QRM wouldn’t get promoted—this squad looks anything but ready for Ligue 2 football. I still couldn’t figure out how the final run-in was so smooth... until I took another look at our opponents. Out of the teams in National, only seven are professional: two (Dijon and Concarneau) went down, three finished in the top three (Orléans, QRM, Caen), and Sochaux and Valenciennes landed in mid-table. The rest are semi-professionals, which meant Julien's QRM side were dark horses for promotion all along—even if it rarely felt that way at the beginning.

The next chapter will reveal what kind of manager Julien really is, as the summer break finally gives him a chance to shape QRM in his own image. It’s a rare opportunity in a turbulent profession—one where he can impose his identity and philosophy on a squad truly of his choosing. Yet as rumors swirl and the coaching carousel spins—Grenoble, having finished 7th in Ligue 2, have just sacked their manager, while Le Havre have relegated from the top flight…

See you next with the beginning of season 2026/27

Life of a Manager

The Family in Julien's First Year
 

For Julien, the longest journey of his first season at QRM was rarely marked in kilometers. Each trip between Le Havre and Petit Quevilly was a test—a quiet, private battle against time and the relentless demands of ambition. The blue Peugeot 508, now so familiar, bore witness to countless half-glimpsed sunrises, tense phone calls, and the low murmur of his own doubts as he drove. He often left before daylight, the apartment hushed in sleep, careful not to disturb Laura, whose quiet support had become the foundation of his resolve.

This season forced Julien to live in fragments, sometimes more coach than husband, always torn between his team and his home. Laura’s presence comforted him even in absence—her patient messages, her deft handling of family life, her calm when the world felt like it would collapse after a defeat. Yet he saw more clearly than ever the toll it took: lonely evenings for Laura, missed dinners, moments with Camille and Louis lost to meetings or away matches. He was grateful for her strength, but guilt lingered—a shadow at the edge of every victory, every sacrifice. She forgave so much to let him pursue his dream, and he knew, on the bad days, just how much she was giving up.

Julien became skilled at re-entry: learning, after each long stretch away, how to fit himself back into the rhythms of home life. There were mornings when he returned to the warm chaos of family breakfast—coffee brewing, croissants fresh, Laura leaning against the counter with a soft smile—and the simple talk of schoolyard stories. Those moments were real and precious, reminders of everything football couldn’t replace. Still, the pressures of management hovered just beyond the dining room door. Julien found himself fighting not to let his worries spill over, not to talk only about formations and contracts, but about Laura’s days, the children’s little dramas, the ordinary things that shaped their lives together.

He missed more than he cared to admit. Some nights brought sharp reminders of what was at stake: the silences after an argument, the distance that grew when the strain became too much for either of them to bear in silence. Laura kept the home afloat—the errands, the routine, the reassuring presence for their children—but Julien saw how tired she was sometimes, how much she wished things were easier. He promised himself he’d do better, that next season would bring more balance, more listening, less taking her strength for granted.

Still, Julien found hope and renewal not in the stadium, but at those rare family gatherings where everyone felt whole. Laura’s laughter after promotion, Camille’s triumphs at school, Louis’s infectious energy—they were victories that matched anything football offered. And through it all, he understood his journey was not just about moving up a division, but about learning what it meant to keep love alive amid the chaos.

As the first season closed, Julien was changed. He carried the lessons of those long drives and hard weeks into every plan for the future. Laura remained at the heart of those plans, her patience and encouragement a quiet force behind his ambition. For Julien, success now meant more than wins —it meant never losing sight of the home waiting at the end of the road, and the woman whose strength had helped him travel so far.

Next time we'll really see how pre-season goes!

Summer 2026

First Proper Transfer Window

Before diving into the new season, let’s take a moment to look back at how the previous campaign finally concluded. As you may recall, when Julien was already deep into transfer business and contract negotiations, there was one important question left hanging in the league: promotion wasn’t yet completely decided, with AS Caen’s playoff fate hanging in the balance. By then, QRM’s  second-place finish—the highest in club history—had sealed their own rise. At the end Caen, managed to edge out Ligue 2’s 16th-placed Nancy thanks to away goals in the playoff. So, as Julien got to work shaping his squad for the new challenge, both Normandy rivals knew they would be facing each other in the second division next year.

Julien was buzzing with both excitement and anxiety about the task ahead—reinforcing the squad for life in Ligue 2, a league that’s a whole different world compared to what QRM had known. But his enthusiasm came with plenty of worries as well. As mentioned before, only four players still had contracts running for next season, which meant Julien faced a huge rebuilding job. There were a handful of footballers he genuinely wanted to keep, but as is often the case, the best ones saw their futures elsewhere. This isn’t the Premier League; here, if a club doesn’t extend your contract, your career might simply be over -this resulted in sleepless nights for him. Alongside his assistant Jonathan Rivierez and Director of Football Joan Miquel Tura, Julien spent long days and endless nights poring over statistics, scouting reports, and potential targets. Tough decisions had to be made—not only about who would be offered a new deal, but also about who wouldn’t be part of QRM’s journey moving forward.

This really has become Julien’s team now, so maybe it’s worth taking a look at how QRM’s squad is shaping up for next season. 

Goalkeepers

Pelle Boevink, the Dutch Goalkeeper arraived for £48.5k from 2. Bundesliga side Greuther Fürth. He played 17 games last season. He will be QRM's first choice goalie in the next season.

One of QRM's most important players of last season Ouparine Djoco will provide relaible backup for newly signed Boevink

If something completely unexpected happens, Julien can count on the only 20-year-old Eliot Boudet from the reserve squad as an emergency solution.

Compared to the resources available, the team did quite well signing Boevink. In my opinion, hu is a real reinforcement.  It’s important not to forget that this is QRM’s first season in the French second division, so the squad had to be built with survival in mind. The goal here is clearly not promotion anymore. 

Left Backs

Sanasi Sy has arrived from Concarneau (relegated from National last season). He will have to replace Namakaro Diallo, who Julien tried to keep with no success.

Alongside Sy, Jason Tré (who played 12 matches last season) can also be deployed, although he’s more comfortable on the right. However, there he’d have to compete with players who would limit his opportunities, so Julien remained uneasy about this position until the very last moment.

That’s why he brought in Lassana Traoré on loan for a year from his former club, St Étienne—Traoré hasn’t played a senior match yet, but at this point in the transfer window (he was the last signing of the summer), resources were already very tight. 

Right Backs

Julien’s very first signing as manager, Thibault Campanini—who arrived last summer—featured in every competitive match for the team last season. He will remain the undisputed first choice in this position this year as well. 

Behind him, Baptiste Etcheverria—who, like Sy, arrived from Concarneau—can be deployed as a right back.  He Arrived as a free agent after his contract expired.

Youssouf Kanouté is currently part of the squad—he made two substitute appearances last season, but he’ll likely be loaned out by QRM. 

If/when he leaves, Jason Tré will be our third choice in both left and right back.

Central Defenders

It’s a position that may seem short of depth at first glance, but that’s not necessarily the case, thanks to the fact that several players in the squad can be used in multiple roles. 

Cristian Dell'Orco, who joined on a free transfer from Serie C side Perugia , will clearly be the first-choice in this position. 

His partner in the heart of QRM's defence will be Philipp Schulz, who arrived form Mainz on a season long loan.

Yasser Baldé stayed from last season's squad.

For now, this is how the team looks in this position, but Campanini could fill in if needed. Julien would really like to bring someone in for this spot, though it’s unlikely to happen—unless he finds someone who could join on loan completely free. In the meantime, if there’s a real emergency and even Campanini can’t step in, 21-year-old Damien Janela could come up from the reserves, but he’s really only an option for one-off matches in a desperate situation.

Defensive Midfielders/Central Midfielders

Tony Njiké, who played as a central midfielder last season and contributed 7 goals and 5 assists in 30 league games, will likely move back a bit and play as a defensive midfielder this year. 

Jordan Leborgne, who played 31 matches in this position for the team last year, will still be here. Leborgne can also fill in as a right back if needed—say, when Campanini is used as a center back. 

26-year-old Darly N'Landu finished 6th in Ligue 2 last season with Guingamp and joined for £120,000. He will mainly play as a central midfielder. 

Wassim Slama, who recorded 4 goals and 3 assists in 23 matches last year, was successfully kept on loan for another season—again, completely free. 

Noah Gomes is still with QRM—he was promoted from the youth team last summer. In the previous season, he scored 1 goal in 13 matches. 

David Tessier, who is only 15 years old, will train with the senior squad but will play for the youth team. 

Wingers

First, let’s look at those who can play on both wings. 

Bakali joined last summer and recorded 1 goal and 4 assists in 17 matches in the previous season. 

The third player is Nicolas Mercier, who joined from Concarneau—a club relegated from the third division last year. He had 3 goals and 3 assists in 30 matches for the relegated team. 

Sylva scored 5 goals and provided 6 assists in 24 matches last year. He’s likely to get fewer opportunities this season. 

Gauthier’s most expensive signing, Hermann Tebily, arrived for £195,000 from Rodez, who finished 11th last season. Tebily is likely to be one of the first names on the teamsheet. 

Brandon Bakungu played for Nancy last season, a team that stayed up via the play-offs. After his contract expired, he joined QRM on a free transfer. 

Strikers

QRM's top scorer last season was Achille Anani, with 12 goals. 

Mvukana is Julien’s first discovery—he scored 1 goal in 11 matches last season. 

20-year-old Lelong-Chrétien was promoted from the reserve team. He’ll be available as an emergency striker.

With so many new faces arriving over the summer, the pre-season friendlies were about much more than results or tactics—they became all about building morale and forging a sense of unity in the squad. Julien understood that for a team thrown together by necessity, success would depend on more than technical ability; they needed trust, shared purpose, and belief in each other. Training sessions were filled with team-building exercises and honest conversations, while on the pitch, the friendlies gave everyone a chance to gel as a group. Wins and losses mattered less than the sparks of chemistry and the beginnings of friendships, as QRM laid the foundations for a competitive, cohesive team in Ligue 2.

As a result of these matches, the players gradually started to have more and more confidence in themselves and in each other.  It was needed, because the expectations beforehand made it clear—Quevilly-Rouen was unanimously considered one of the relegation candidates. 

There’s just one week left until the opening match of the Ligue 2 season, and Julien is counting down the days with a mixture of excitement and nerves. His journey is about to truly begin—from this moment, everything that came before feels like a prologue. For the first time in QRM’s history, the club will compete in the second division, and for Julien, everything he’s worked for will be put to the test. The schedule offers up both challenges and emotional reunions: among the opponents are Grenoble and Le Havre, two sides with special meaning for Julien’s story. He knows that in just a few days, everyone will finally see what kind of manager he really is. While anticipation builds in Petit Quevilly, and the squad sharpens their focus, Julien can’t help but feel that his life’s biggest chapter is only now getting underway.

It’s already clear that this season will be much tougher for QRM than the last. Ligue 2 is a big step up in quality and intensity, with every team fighting fiercely and no easy matches in sight. The opponents are stronger, the schedule is tighter, and there’s little room for error. Julien knows the challenges ahead will test his team’s resilience and his own skills as a manager. Last year’s success brought hope and excitement, but now the reality of surviving and thriving at a higher level is starting to set in. For QRM and Julien, the battle for points and respect will be harder than ever, and this campaign promises to be a real measure of what they’re made of.

See you next time in December 2026!

A Tough Season

Hopes Are More Than Alive At The Winter Break

On the opening day of the season, QRM lined up against Julien’s boyhood club, Le Havre—a truly special fixture to kick off life in Ligue 2. The match proved to be a tough test for Julien’s newly assembled side, as Le Havre dominated possession and created far more chances throughout the ninety minutes.

Despite being under pressure for much of the game, QRM showed plenty of discipline and fighting spirit in front of their home fans. In the end, a single goal just before half-time was enough for Le Havre to take all three points, but given how much their opponents controlled the game, the narrow scoreline was something of a relief for Julien’s team.

In their second outing of the season, QRM travelled to Troyes and once again found themselves up against a well-organised and dominant side. The hosts enjoyed most of the ball and set the tempo from the start, keeping QRM under pressure for long periods. Despite a few promising moments on the counter, Julien’s team struggled to seriously threaten Troyes. Two first-half goals put the result beyond doubt, and for QRM, it was another lesson in just how challenging life in Ligue 2 can be against experienced opposition.

Amiens had also started the season with two defeats, so both teams came into the match desperate to get their campaign up and running. The game quickly turned into an open contest, with QRM showing far more attacking intent and resilience than in previous outings. Julien’s side came from behind thanks to a brace from Achille Anani, and for long spells looked capable of taking points away from a fellow struggler. Ultimately, two late goals meant QRM left empty-handed, but the improved performance was a positive sign—and proof that they were beginning to adapt to the demands of Ligue 2.

Next up were Rodez, sitting on three points after only managing a win against Dunkerque, who were bottom of the table. QRM approached the game knowing it was a real opportunity to put points on the board—both teams had something to prove. It turned out to be a hard-fought contest, with chances at both ends and neither side able to take control. But in the closing stages, Achille Anani struck what proved to be the winner, sending Julien’s side and the home fans into celebration. It was QRM’s first victory of the season—a reward for their resilience and growing belief as the month progressed.

Next up was Le Mans, also on three points and sitting 14th in the table. What made this defeat especially painful for QRM was not just the scoreline, but the loss of their first-choice left back—Sanasi Sy—who picked up an injury that will sideline him for nine weeks. Julien’s side managed to threaten going forward, but struggled to turn possession into real chances. Le Mans were ruthless in taking their opportunities, and QRM left with not just a heavy defeat but an important gap in their starting lineup to fill for the weeks ahead.

Then came Pau, a match in which QRM were on the back foot from the very beginning. Julien’s side struggled to get hold of the ball and spent most of the game defending deep in their own half. There were brief moments of resistance, but Pau were in control, and the scoreline reflected the dominance of the visitors. For QRM, it was an afternoon spent chasing the game, unable to impose themselves at any stage.

After a gruelling August, Julien must be feeling a mix of frustration and determination. The tough run of results—just one win from six games—has reminded him how difficult life will be in Ligue 2, and the late goals, injuries, and stretches of defensive pressure have all tested his resolve. Yet amid the disappointment, there are signs of progress—moments of fight, glimpses of attacking promise, and the sense that QRM are slowly adapting to the higher level. For Julien, it’s a challenging start but not one without hope. The early setbacks have made him even more committed to building unity and confidence within his squad, knowing that the road ahead will demand patience and persistence from everyone involved.

 

September 2026

 

Next up was Reims, sitting second in the table and widely expected to dominate proceedings. Against such strong opposition, QRM put in an organised and disciplined display, frustrating the hosts for much of the match. Achille Anani even gave Julien’s side a shock lead early in the second half, raising hopes of a surprise upset. However, Reims’ relentless pressure finally paid off with two late goals, snatching victory in the closing moments. For QRM, it was a hard defeat to swallow, but they came close to pulling off a memorable result against one of the league’s best.

QRM were forced into several changes for the clash with Laval, as three key players missed out due to U23 international duty. The timing couldn’t have been worse, but there was a silver lining: just before kickoff, Enzo Genton arrived on loan from Lorient, adding some much-needed depth to the back line. Despite the disruptions, QRM produced an entertaining, end-to-end contest. Achille Anani kept up his scoring form with two goals, and there were real attacking flashes, but the visitors ultimately edged a seven-goal thriller. The squad’s character showed, but the absences and constant changes made the task that much harder.

Angers, sitting 11th in the table, came into the fixture having lost their last four matches—just like QRM. With both sides eager to put their poor run of form behind them, the match had the feeling of a crucial turning point. On the pitch, QRM defended resolutely and held on for a hard-earned draw, their first clean sheet in weeks. For Julien, the result was welcome relief after a series of tough outings, and offered some hope that his side might finally be stabilising.

After nine rounds of Ligue 2 action, QRM find themselves in 16th place out of 18 teams—a situation that speaks to the many battles and narrow defeats the squad has endured so far. The team has shown flashes of quality and determination, but has struggled for consistency and points, missed opportunities often shaping the story of their campaign. For Julien, the challenge is clear: steadying the ship and building confidence before the pressure of a relegation fight becomes overwhelming. There’s been progress in some areas—particularly in defensive organisation—but QRM know that simply surviving in this tough division will demand more resolve and improvement in the weeks to come.

October 2026

Next up were Red Star, 15th in the table, in a game that had no shortage of drama. QRM raced into a strong lead with early goals, but the turning point came when Anani was sent off in the 76th minute for handling the ball on the goal line. The resulting penalty, however, was missed, and Red Star could only manage to reduce the deficit late on. Despite being down to ten men and facing a tense finish, Julien’s side held firm to secure all three points. The win brought much-needed relief and showed QRM’s resilience, even when events threatened to turn against them.

After this game QRM are in 15th on 7pts, followed by Dunkerque (7), Red Star (5) and Orleans (3)

Despite QRM taking the lead early on, Guingamp quickly regrouped and took control of the game, gradually pulling away to secure a convincing win. None of the bottom four teams managed to pick up a point this weekend.

Grenoble was the next opponent—a fixture with a personal touch for Julien, whose prior chapters and memories are closely linked to the club. Facing them always brings a wave of nostalgia, making the defeat sting that much more. QRM battled hard, but ultimately came up short as Grenoble dominated much of the match and snatched the winner ten minutes from time. Once again, none of the bottom four teams managed to secure a point in this round.

QRM faced bottom-of-the-table Orléans in a match that offered hope of vital points against direct relegation rivals. Julien’s side seized the moment, showing attacking intent and clinical finishing to earn a precious victory. Goals from Sy and Anani helped secure the three points and a little breathing space in the battle at the bottom. After gameweek 13, the league table reads: 14th QRM (10 points), 15th Le Mans (9), 16th Red Star (8), 17th Dunkerque (7), 18th Orléans (3).

Despite picking up valuable points, QRM’s position in the table continues to demand caution; every victory feels vital, but the threat from below remains real. Julien’s team are slowly showing signs of grit and improvement, yet it remains clear: each round is a new test, and just staying out of the bottom four will require resilience and discipline all season long.

November 2026

Up next was Bastia, who sat just ahead of QRM in 14th place with three points separating the sides. Both teams knew a win would offer valuable breathing room in the fight to stay above the drop zone. Julien’s men rose to the occasion, controlling much of the match and earning a deserved victory thanks to early goals from Slama and Tebily. Bastia threatened a comeback, but QRM held their nerve to seal a crucial three points—a result that could prove pivotal in this tightly contested bottom half of the Ligue 2 table. 13th Bastia on 13 points, 14th QRM (13), 15th Red Star (11), 16th Le Mans (9), 17th Dunkerque (7), 18th Orléans (3).

QRM’s trip to Montpellier ended with the expected result, as the home side edged a tight contest by a single goal. Julien’s team put up a respectable fight, managing to keep the scoreline close and creating a few chances of their own, but ultimately couldn’t find the breakthrough. Montpellier’s experience showed, and QRM left empty-handed. 13th Bastia on 16 points, 14th QRM (13), 15th Red Star (12), 16th Le Mans (9), 17th Dunkerque (7), 18th Orléans (3).

In the cup, QRM were paired with two amateur sides: GC Lucciana and AS Saint-Jacques Foot. Both matches provided Julien’s team with the perfect opportunity to rotate the squad and give valuable minutes to the whole group. QRM approached the ties with professionalism and hunger, dominating the games from start to finish. The attacking players enjoyed plenty of space and chances, resulting in convincing victories that saw multiple names on the scoresheet. These outings helped strengthen confidence and morale at an important point in the season.

The relief of cup wins and vital league points has lifted some weight off Julien's shoulders, but he knows just how fragile momentum can be in football. The narrow losses and constant pressure of the relegation battle keep him grounded, always aware that complacency is a luxury QRM cannot afford. Still, November has given Julien renewed energy. He’s proud of the team’s fighting spirit and growing unity, recognising that small victories—whether in the league or the cup—can play a huge role in boosting confidence. The challenge ahead remains, but  there are genuine reasons to believe.

December 2026

Up next was Dunkerque—a direct rival in the relegation battle.. For much of the match, it looked as though QRM were set to pull away from their pursuers, especially after taking the early lead. But in the second half, Dunkerque turned the tide. Despite QRM’s determination, the visitors gained control and scored two decisive goals to complete the turnaround. What could have been a statement win slipped away, and Julien’s side were left frustrated, knowing how close they came to putting some gap between themselves and the danger zone.

Next came AS Caen, themselves promoted just last season—via the playoff, no less. Unlike QRM, however, Caen have used their momentum to challenge for promotion again, and they showed their quality here. From the start, Caen were the more organised and dangerous side, dominating possession and creating more chances. QRM struggled to match their energy in the key moments, and the match slipped away after two goals early in the second half. 

December brought a dramatic cup night as QRM faced Ligue 1 side Lorient. Against all odds, Julien’s squad managed to hold their own, withstanding heavy pressure and limiting the hosts to just one goal from open play. QRM found their equaliser through Slama and, despite having far fewer chances, refused to back down. The match went the distance and was ultimately decided by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Even in defeat, QRM earned respect for pushing a top-flight team to the limit and showing resilience under immense pressure.

League Standings

The league table makes clear that QRM have not had a successful autumn—just 13 points and sitting in 15th place. Fortunately, there are a few teams performing even worse, which keeps the pressure at bay for now. Bastia and Amiens seem to be pulling away from the danger zone, so at present the bottom five teams—Red Star, QRM, Le Mans, Dunkerque, and Orléans—look most at risk. The numbers highlight QRM’s struggles: they have scored the fewest goals in the league. Just one poor run could plunge Julien and his side back into trouble.

Looking at the stats, Achille Anani stands out as QRM’s main goal threat, scoring 8 times from 16 appearances with an impressive tally of 44 shots and 7.32 expected goals. He keeps QRM alive. Te teams 2nd best goalscorer is Hermann Tebily with 3 goals.

Julien enters the winter break feeling a mix of cautious resolve and realism. While the autumn campaign hasn’t brought as many points as hoped—and several players are seeking departures due to limited playing time—he is determined not to make sweeping changes. Instead, his priority is to preserve stability and unity. Julien is committed to fighting for survival with this current squad, trusting that together they’ll have enough strength to secure Ligue 2 safety in the second half of the season.

See you next, at the end of the season!

The Slightest of Margins

Fight Against Relegation

The two weeks of Christmas break offered Julien a much-needed chance to catch his breath. After months of tension, hard-fought matches, and relentless pressure, he was finally able to spend time with family, relax, and recharge. Julien made a conscious effort to step away from football for a while—sharing holiday meals, taking long walks with his family, enjoying quiet festive moments, and reconnecting with old friends. As the break came to an end, he felt restored, energized, and hopeful about the challenges awaiting in the second half of the season.

January 2027

QRM’s return from the winter break came against league leaders Le Havre, and it proved to be another stern test for Julien’s side. Le Havre dominated the game from start to finish, controlling possession, creating chance after chance, and forcing QRM to spend most of the match on their own half. Despite some moments of resistance, QRM struggled to get a foothold, mustering only seven shots and rarely threatening the opposition goal. Two well-worked strikes from I. Soumaré sealed a comfortable win for the hosts. The result leaves QRM still searching for form and answers as the fight for survival resumes.

QRM’s clash with Amiens saw both teams struggle to break each other down, resulting in a tense 0-0 draw. It was a game of missed opportunities and frustration; the sides finished level on shots and expected goals, but Amiens enjoyed much more possession and posed the greater threat in front of goal. QRM defended resolutely, but with only one shot on target, Julien’s men rarely looked like snatching all three points. As the whistle blew, it felt like a valuable point in a relegation fight, but also another sign of the attacking issues that persist for the team this season.

Our first win of the season came against Rodez, and looking back now, it’s clear just how big an achievement that was—Rodez currently sit in eighth place, proving themselves as one of the division’s most consistent performers. This time, things were very different: Rodez dominated the match, controlling possession, piling on the pressure, and eventually running out comfortable 3-1 winners. QRM took an early lead with a Bokangu goal but couldn’t contain Rodez’s swift attacking play.

The matchup against Le Mans was a true relegation six-pointer, with QRM sitting in 15th and Le Mans in 17th ahead of kickoff. After a heavy loss in the autumn fixture, Julien’s side arrived determined to show fight and secure vital points. Despite conceding first, QRM responded brilliantly—Anani and Tebily both struck back within minutes, and Anani added a second soon after to give the hosts a comfortable lead. It was an open, intensely contested battle, but QRM managed the pressure and saw out a 3-1 win. The victory delivered a real boost in the fight for survival.

January tested Julien’s patience and resolve. After the winter break, he watched his team struggle to keep pace with Le Havre—league leaders who seemed to play at a different level. The goalless draw against Amiens was tedious and left him frustrated; QRM defended well but posed no real attacking threat, a problem that lingered in his thoughts. The defeat to Rodez, now a top-eight side, reminded Julien of how much ground his team needed to make up. But the win against Le Mans rekindled some hope: in a direct relegation battle, QRM found the courage to step up. Julien knows survival will require many more nights like that, but for now, the fight is still on.

At the end of January 14th QRM on 17 points, 15th Dunkerque (17), 16th Red Star (16), 17th Le Mans (12) 18th Orléans (7)

No players arrived or left in the January window, but QRM managed to sign Jussef Nasrawe on a free from Bayern II (he played 2 games for the first team) for he next season.

February 2027

Pau sat tenth in the table, making this another uphill battle for QRM. Despite matching Pau for shots and crafting several decent chances, Julien’s side never managed to assert themselves—possession was heavily in Pau’s favour, and the hosts dictated much of the match. QRM showed flashes of attacking intent, but crucially lacked the cutting edge. Goals on either side of halftime sealed a comfortable 2-0 win for Pau, and Julien was left reflecting on what it takes to compete with strong, stable sides in Ligue 2. 

Reims were locked in the battle for the playoff places, and their quality shone through against QRM. From the first whistle, Reims dominated both possession and territory, rarely letting Julien’s side settle on the ball and creating a constant stream of chances. Two first-half goals put the visitors firmly in control, QRM unable to respond until Leborgne finally pulled one back late in the game. Yet with only eight shots and little time on the ball, QRM spent most of the match defending.

Against ninth-placed Laval, QRM didn't have much possession but created the more dangerous chances. QRM produced twice as many shots on target and a higher expected goals tally. Julien’s team looked sharper on the break, and for long stretches seemed more likely to nick the win. Yet, neither side could find the breakthrough, the match ending goalless.

Angers took control from the start as expected, wielding nearly seventy percent possession and generating wave after wave of attacks. QRM, to their credit, managed to keep the score close for most of the match, with Tebily’s goal sparking hope of a comeback. But Angers proved too strong, their playmakers carving open QRM’s defense and creating high-quality chances throughout. The visitors finished with 25 shots.

The relegation battle at the end of February: 14th Dunkerque (21), 15th QRM (18), 16th Red Star (17), 17th Le Mans (12), 18th Orléans (10)

February proved just how fierce the relegation battle has become. QRM fought hard but struggled for points, picking up only a draw amidst three defeats. As the month closed, Le Mans and Orléans were lagging behind but not yet out of sight.

March 2027

Another crucial relegation clash arrived for QRM. Anani missed a penalty but showed true character by making amends with the opening goal moments later. Lelong-Chéritien’s strike—his first ever for the club—doubled the lead in stoppage time, giving QRM breathing room even as Red Star snatched a late consolation. Simultaneously, Orléans managed a surprise win over Dunkerque in another bottom-of-the-table contest,

Sanasi Sy’s sending off in the fourth minute put QRM in a very difficult position from the outset. Down a man, the team found themselves under constant pressure, conceding two goals in the first half. Yet despite tough odds, QRM rallied after the break—attacking for much of the second half and even pulled one back through Anani. QRM went for an equalizer towards the end, but the hope was over as Guingamp’s third goal sealed the win and left QRM empty-handed. In this round, of all the teams battling to escape relegation, only Dunkerque managed to pick up points with their win over Bastia.

This match at Stade des Alps was a deeply emotional moment for Julien. It was his first encounter as an opposing manager in a stadium where he had lived so many memories. The Grenoble supporters welcomed him with enthusiastic chants—“Gauthier, Gauthier!” echoing through the ground—a moving tribute that reminded him of his special connection with the club and its fans. On the pitch, QRM fought bravely, even generating plenty of corners and shots on target despite limited possession, but ultimately fell short. For Julien, the result was bittersweet, but the crowd’s warmth marked a memory he’ll carry far beyond the final score.

At the end of the month 14th Dunkerque (27), 15. QRM (21), 16th Red Star (18), 17th Orléans (14), 18th Le Mans (12)

March offered no easy answers for QRM. A vital win at Red Star lifted spirits and provided some breathing room in the standings, but it couldn’t hide the ongoing struggle—two more defeats quickly followed, each one tightening the pressure at the bottom. Every game felt like a must-win, and the race to avoid relegation only grew fiercer: Dunkerque remain just in reach on 27 points.

April 2027

QRM rose to the occasion in yet another relegation showdown, this time against Orléans. Despite being behind on possession and conceding the first goal, Julien’s team fought back—the equalizer came from an own goal before halftime, Schulz and Anani fired the team ahead, early in the second half and a Giraudon own goal wrapped up a crucial victory. The performance showed real character, with QRM making the most of their chances and asserting themselves at the right moments.

The trip to Bastia looked like a real opportunity for QRM—a winnable match, given they’d already beaten Bastia 2-1 at home in the autumn, and the hosts, down in 13th, weren’t far from the relegation fight themselves. But from the start, Bastia imposed themselves, dictating play and limiting QRM’s chances. With over 70% possession and relentless pressure, Bastia struck in both halves, leaving QRM without a way back. Julien will feel disappointed, knowing this was one of those fixtures that could have boosted survival hopes.

Montpellier, fighting for a promotion playoff spot, were always favorites coming into this game—and the match played out true to form. QRM struggled to create chances, registering just two shots on target with a worryingly low xG, while the visitors controlled possession and dictated the tempo from start to finish. A single goal was enough for Montpellier, who never looked like surrendering their lead.

Last autumn, Dunkerque walked away with all three points from Stade Robert Diochon—a result that nearly tipped QRM into crisis mode. This time, away from home and facing a must-not-lose scenario, Julien’s squad showed true determination. Tebily struck early after a Bokangu assist, and while Dunkerque were and while Dunkerque, QRM held on for a narrow but precious 1-0 victory.

With two matches remaining, it became certain that QRM would at least finish in a relegation playoff position. At this point, the club offered Julien a contract extension. I spent a lot of time thinking about how the story should continue—there were still two very strong opponents left and survival was far from guaranteed. Even if the team stayed up, the next season would likely be even tougher. In the end, looking back on Julien’s playing career, I felt it would be true to his character to accept the offer. His salary will increase from £2,100 to £2,500 per week, and the new contract runs until 2029.

Caen arrived having already secured their place in the promotion playoffs, but that didn’t mean they went easy on QRM. Julien’s side were on the back foot for most of the match, seeing little of the ball and struggling to create real chances. Even so, they battled hard and struck first—Slama putting QRM ahead against the run of play. The lead wouldn’t last, though—Caen’s class showed as they pressed forward and found an equalizer just after the break. In the end, both teams had to settle for a share of the points,

By the end of April, Orléans and Le Mans were relegated, Dunkerque survieved. The only open question was the relegation playoff spot. 15th QRM (28), 16th Red Star (27).

With only one game to go it was all down to the last round.

May 2027

Troyes had already secured second place and automatic promotion before the final round, so QRM fans were hoping the visitors might take things lightly. But there were no favors given—Troyes played with focus and discipline, shutting down QRM’s attacks and capitalizing on one of their few clear chances. A  lone first-half goal was enough for Troyes to claim all three points.

Red Star also lost at home against Guingamp, so the 15th place was decided by a single point.

Quevilly-Rouen therefore remained in the second division. Grenoble lost to Lorient in the promotion playoff final. Le Havre and Troyes were promoted, while Le Mans and Orleans were relegated. Red Star still has one relegation playoff final to play against Sochaux.

AS Saint-Étienne and Clermont were relegated from Ligue 1.

 Rouen and Nancy were promoted from the National.

QRM has just come through a very difficult season. In fact, they owed their survival mainly to the fact that Le Mans and Orleans were extremely weak. Nancy will certainly represent a much stronger challenge, so the 2027/28 season will definitely be even tougher - especially considering that in the spring, QRM only managed to beat their direct rivals. 

See you next time with formations used, player stats, and a summary of the season from a different perspective.

Tactical Tweaks

Last season, Julien Gauthier’s belief in a single formation was absolute. The team was built on routine and stability; every match, his side lined up the same way, trusting familiarity to bring results.

But as the new campaign unfolded, the level of opposition climbed sharply. Every week, Julien faced teams stronger and smarter than before. He knew repetition would no longer be enough. Adapting became not just an option—but a necessity. Alongside his assistant, Jonathan Rivierez, Julien spent countless hours in the office, day and night, searching for answers. Together, they poured over match footage, analyzing every detail, every pattern—hoping to uncover a tactical edge. Gradually, their hard work paid off. Julien began to introduce two new formations into the team’s repertoire, adjusting tactics based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes that meant switching shape mid-match; sometimes it meant surprising everyone with a bold new lineup from the start.

Change brought its own set of challenges—uncertainty, nerves, moments of doubt. But Julien remained relentless. His willingness to learn and to adapt kept hope alive, even in the toughest fixtures. This season, leadership meant more than holding firm—it demanded creativity, courage and endless preparation. And if victories were harder to win, they felt all the sweeter, knowing how much had gone into the fight.

Fortune lended a helping hand sometimes. In the closing rounds, despite all the difficulties, a few results went their way. The right bounce, a rival’s slip, a late goal out of nowhere. Bit by bit, those moments of luck added up. By season’s end, Julien’s team had done just enough. They had survived. Survival may not have looked pretty, but it meant everything. For Julien, it was proof that hard work and adaptability mattered—even when success demanded a little luck as well.

In the second half of the season, Julien also started to integrate David Teissier, who only turned 16 in December. 

Mvukana who was promoted to the first team last season has become an increasingly important player. 

The heart of Julien Gauthier’s squad was Achille Anani, whose goals (14 in all competitions) kept the team afloat during tough spells. Around him, Hermann Tebily and Wassim Slama added much-needed variety, each finding the net several times and supporting attacks from wider and deeper positions.  In defense and midfield, players such as Philipp Schulz, Thibault Campanini, Tony Njiké, and Pelle Boevink stood out for their steady presence and high number of appearances. It's important to mention Cristian Dell'Orco as well who was the only outfield player who started in every single match this season.

Julien’s plans are clear. The squad will have to be strengthened, but there won’t be much room to maneuver, mainly because of the limited wage budget. Only Jason Tré’s contract is expiring, but the club won’t be renewing with him—there’s no place for sentimentality. For the first time, only rational decisions will be considered. The club must part ways with anyone it cannot rely on. The core will definitely stay, Julien was mostly dissatisfied with the flanks. The attacking play needs to be more precise and fluid. 

It's probably worth taking a look at how Julien has developed over the last 2 years.

See you next time with some family drama!

The Price of Ambition

When Football Is More Than Wins and Losses

Before the season started, Julien made a promise. More time with family. Fewer nights away. A better balance between the demands of management and the needs of those he loved most. It was a sincere promise, born from the exhaustion of the previous campaign and a genuine desire to be present.

But promises are fragile things, especially in football.

As the season unfolded and results continued to disappoint, Julien found himself working longer hours, analyzing more footage, searching endlessly for tactical solutions that never quite materialized. The stress didn't stay at the stadium—it came home with him. His irritability grew, his patience wore thin. Laura bore the brunt of it all.

She handled everything: school runs, household decisions, medical appointments, finances, the endless logistical choreography of family life. All while Julien was consumed by the club, by results, by the weight of keeping the team afloat. When he was home, he was distant—mentally still at the training ground, replaying missed chances and tactical failures. The conversations became shorter, colder. The silences grew longer.

By mid-season, the marriage itself was cracking under the strain. Laura felt abandoned. Julien felt misunderstood. Neither knew quite how to bridge the gap that had quietly opened between them.

Then came Michel Mallet's offer: a contract extension. A chance to continue, to try again, to prove himself. For most managers, it would be a moment of validation. For Julien, it became a crossroads.

That night, Julien and Laura sat down for a conversation they couldn't avoid any longer. The words came slowly at first, then in a rush—years of frustration, worry, and loneliness pouring out. They talked about what they wanted, what they needed, what was worth sacrificing and what wasn't. They even spoke about the possibility of Julien's retirement from management, but they both knew it would be a disaster for the family for totally different reasons.

By the end of the evening, a decision had been made: the family would relocate. Petit-Quevilly or Rouen—somewhere close enough to the stadium, but far enough removed from the isolation that had plagued them. A fresh start, a new base, a chance to rebuild what had been slowly crumbling.

It wasn't a romantic gesture or a grand gesture. It was survival—the survival of their marriage, their family, their life together. In accepting the contract, Julien was also accepting something else: that football, for all its glory, means nothing if it costs you the people you love.

Sometimes the most important victories aren't won on the pitch. They're fought for in quiet rooms, in difficult conversations, and in the difficult decision to change course before it's too late.

See you next with the summer of 2027!

Fresh Air and New Foundations

The season had left its marks—deep ones. So when it ended, Julien knew exactly what his family needed: escape. A break from Norman skies, from the weight of expectations, from the endless cycle of tactical meetings and match analysis.

They chose the Côte d'Azur. The Mediterranean sun felt like medicine. For two weeks, Julien sat by the water, watching his children play and swim, sharing quiet moments with Laura that didn't revolve around contract negotiations or squad selection. The tension that had nearly broken them began to ease. It wasn't a complete reconciliation—they weren't naive enough to think a holiday could erase everything—but it was a beginning. Laura smiled more genuinely. Julien felt the weight lift, if only temporarily.

But even paradise has an expiration date. By the end of the second week, Julien's mind had already begun to wander back to football. Not to yesterday's problems, but to tomorrow's possibilities.

The journey back to Normandy marked a new chapter. When they arrived at their new home in Petit-Quevilly, closer to the stadium but far enough from the isolation that had plagued them, there was an unfamiliar energy. Fresh starts are always tinged with hope and anxiety in equal measure.

The next few weeks blurred together in a symphony of unpacking. Boxes everywhere. Laura directing the placement of furniture with a determination that suggested she was reclaiming not just a house, but a life. The children explored their new rooms with the wonder of discovery. Julien helped where he could, but his mind was already elsewhere—half in the hallway with a lamp, half in meeting rooms discussing transfers.

Because even as boxes were being unpacked, Julien's thoughts were consumed by the transfer market. The season had revealed gaps in his squad. Certain positions needed reinforcement. Others required renewal. He'd spent those Mediterranean evenings scrolling through player profiles on his phone, making notes, sketching out potential moves. The relegation battle had taught him hard lessons: you cannot stand still. You must evolve, strengthen, adapt.

By the end of July, as the final boxes found their places and the new house began to feel like home, Julien was already deep in conversation with Jonathan Rivierez (assistant) and Juan Miquel Tura (DoF). Which players could be moved? Which targets were realistic? The transfer window was closing, but opportunities remained. The hunt had already begun.

Laura noticed, of course. She always did. But this time, there was no reproach in her eyes—only understanding. This was who Julien was. The key was balance, not erasure. And perhaps, in this new house in Petit-Quevilly, they could finally find it.

The new season was approaching. And with it, new possibilities.

Players In

First, the excellent dribbler Keenan Cruden arrived on loan from Volendam. Julien primarily counted on the 19-year-old winger on the left flank. 

The 20-year-old Surinamese Jahrnell Wjngaarde arrived on loan from another Dutch side NAC Breda to play on the opposite flank. 

Kelechi Nwakali arrived on a free transfer from Barnsley in League One. He is primarily deployable behind the striker(s). QRM signed him to a contract until 2030. 

Jussef Nasraowe, arriving from Bayern, was already mentioned in January. 

Pape Moussa Fall scored 9 goals for top-flight Metz in the previous season. The 23-year-old, 203 cm tall excellent heading striker signed a contract with the club until 2031. In his case, QRM pays significantly higher salary than usual, but Julien and the staff expect a lot from him. If this signing works out, staying up should be much smoother this year.​

The experienced centre-back Philipp Maier arrived on a free transfer from TSV 1860 Munich, who were relegated from 2. Bundesliga. 

The 20-year-old Noham Kamara arrived on loan from PSG, also for this position.​

The still only 18-year-old Wassim Slama begins his third consecutive season on loan from PSG at Petit-Quevilly. 

Players promoted from the youth team

The 18-year-old Mabanza will be the Sy's backup at left-back position. 

Players Out

Hare and Pegard left the club for a total of 134,000 pounds. The latter did not play a single match for QRM. Upon the expiration of his contract, Tiago Da Costa departed to Basel. Noah Gomes, David Teissier, and Guilavogui are playing on one-year loans in hopes of more playing time. 

At this moment, the team is spending slightly more than the salary budget allowed by the presidency, so Julien and his staff are still working on selling 1-2 players, but the suitors are not really coming...

Pre-season friendlies

The preseason friendlies painted a worrying picture. Against Rouen—newly promoted from the National to Ligue 2, hungry and organized—Julien's side suffered a defeat on neutral ground. It was a sobering reminder that the step up in competition would be unforgiving. 

The following week brought genuine concern. Against Peterborough, a team competing in League One , Julien's side was dismantled 5-1 at home. Achille Anani managed a lone goal, but it was little consolation in what was a chastening display. The defensive frailties were exposed ruthlessly, and the midfield couldn't find any rhythm or control.

Then came the fixture against Le Havre—the team that had dominated Ligue 2 just last season, now preparing for Ligue 1. The result was much better as  it ended in a goalless draw. Finally, a local match against Grand-Quevilly, the amateur side from just across the way, offered some respite: a 1-0 win courtesy of Nwakali's 36th-minute goal. But even that felt hollow against the backdrop of the week's humiliations.

As August drew to a close, Julien knew the hard work was just beginning. The preseason had been a harsh teacher: his squad wasn't ready. The real test would come when the season began, and there would be no room for the mistakes he'd witnessed in July.

After the season opener against newly promoted Sochaux, Julien's team visits the relegated Saint-Étienne, followed by two tough matches against Laval and Amiens. Points should be secured against Rodez and Rouen for safe survival at the end of the season.

See you in a month!