RC Lens ushered in a new era this summer, beginning at the top with the appointment of Will Stillโs former assistant, Sage, as manager in June. With Sage now steering Les Sang et Or, the club has started reshaping its squad. Here’s a look at the key arrivals โ and the notable names whoโve moved on.
Key Arrivals
Samson Baidoo
Following the departure of Facundo Medina, Lens moved swiftly to fill the void at center-back, signing 21-year-old Samson Baidoo from RB Salzburg. Baidoo, who made 71 appearances over four years with the Austrian side, arrives with promise and potential to grow into a key piece of Sageโs new-look defense.
Matthieu Udol
To complement their youth at the back, Lens brought in veteran defender Matthieu Udol, who spent an impressive 13 years at FC Metz. The 29-year-oldโs experience is expected to help steady the backline and mentor younger players like Baidoo.
Rรฉgis Gurtner
Lens continued to add leadership and experience by signing 38-year-old goalkeeper Rรฉgis Gurtner. After a long stint with Amiens SC, where he racked up 355 appearances, Gurtner arrives as a calming presence between the posts โ especially following the departure of Brice Samba earlier this year.
Notable Departures
Matthew Ryan
Brought in last season to help cover for Samba, Matthew Ryan made 14 appearances in the 2024โ25 campaign, recording six clean sheets and conceding 17 goals. The 33-year-old Australian international left the club as a free agent after Lens opted not to renew his contract.
Facundo Medina
One of Lensโ most impactful players in recent years, Facundo Medina left the club to join Olympique de Marseille after six seasons and 165 appearances. The Argentine defender played a key role in Lensโ rise, including their 2022โ23 run to the Champions League. Fans wonโt have to wait long to see him again โ Lens and Marseille face off on October 26, 2025, and again on January 25, 2026.
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