News Focus
- RC Lens hunt for new manager as Pierre Sage nears Premier League switch
- Le Mans FC boss Patrick Videira tops the shortlist for the vacancy
- Portuguese clubs also chase the 49-year-old French coach
- Videira secured Ligue 1 promotion after 43 wins in 78 matches
- His side have lost just twice since the start of 2026
RC Lens have turned their attention to Patrick Videira. The French club want the Le Mans FC manager to become their new head coach. Current boss Pierre Sage is expected to leave the club shortly.
Sage is reportedly negotiating with Crystal Palace. The Premier League side hope he will replace Oliver Glasner. Because of this potential move, Lens must search for a new manager quickly.
Videira has become the leading candidate for the position. The 49-year-old joined Le Mans FC in the summer of 2024. He moved from AS Furiani Agliani. During his time at the club, he has achieved impressive results. His team has won 43 of the 78 matches he has managed. They drew 21 games and lost just 14.
The coach secured promotion to Ligue 1 for the 2026-27 season. This success has drawn interest from other clubs. Portuguese teams have also contacted him in recent weeks.
However, Lens have already started discussions with his representatives. They hope to appoint him before their rivals. Videira’s recent record is particularly striking. Since the beginning of 2026, his side have only suffered two defeats.
The club believe he can maintain their progress. They aim to complete the appointment soon.