Will Still has cited instinct and emotional conversations with Auxerre legends as the deciding factors in his appointment as manager of the French club, rejecting interest from Bristol City and FC Lorient in the process.
The 33-year-old Belgian returns to management eight months after his dismissal from Southampton. He takes over at a club with a rich history in French football, and has already begun assembling his backroom team with familiar faces from the Auxerre academy.
Legends’ Influence
Still revealed that discussions with former Auxerre stars Djibril Cissé and Jean-Alain Boumsong, who will serve as his assistant managers, proved pivotal in his decision-making process. He also sought counsel from Guy Roux, the club’s most decorated manager.
“Djibril Cissé and Jean-Alain Boumsong – I’ve had them both together. Then I called Guy Roux,” Still told L’Équipe. “You can sense their love for the club. That really touched me.”
He confirmed that negotiations with both Bristol City and FC Lorient had reached an advanced phase before he opted for Auxerre. The manager attributed his final decision to his “instinct”, dismissing suggestions that the Burgundy club represented merely a fallback option following his exit from English football.
Return to Ligue 1
Still’s first competitive fixture in charge carries particular significance. Auxerre will open their Ligue 1 campaign against RC Lens, the club Still managed immediately prior to his spell at Southampton.
The reunion offers an immediate opportunity for the young coach to demonstrate the progress he has made since leaving France for the English Premier League. His previous tenure at Lens during the 2024-25 season marked him as one of European football’s most promising managerial talents before his controversial sacking by the Saints.
Now tasked with stabilising Auxerre in the top flight, Still brings a reputation for innovative tactical approaches and man-management skills honed across different leagues. The club will hope his decision to follow his heart translates into results on the pitch, beginning with that emotional curtain-raiser against his former employers.