Lens spring a surprise, Paul Pogba disappoints, Esteban Lepaul emerges in Ligue 1 highs and lows | OneFootball

A Ligue 1 season of revelations and reversals had RC Lens as its sensation, pushing PSG before clinching second and direct Champions League qualification. According to Le Progres, Pierre Sage's side could cap it with Coupe de France victory over Nice on Friday.

Lens were driven by Robin Risser, the season's top goalkeeper, plus a revitalised Florian Thauvin, Adrien Thomasson's experience and Matthieu Udol's energy.

Long off the podium pace, Lille under Bruno Genesio put together a 13-match unbeaten spring to seize third and return straight to the Champions League. Auxerre ended with three wins from their final three after a relegation fight.

Antoine Kombouaré revived promoted Paris FC, shaping a solid side that secured safety without alarm.

Rennes forward Esteban Lepaul was the surprise breakout, finishing Ligue 1's top scorer with 21. He netted again on the final day despite a 3-1 defeat to OM.

After finishing runners-up to PSG last season, OM imploded. They exited the Champions League early, lost 5-0 to Paris and, amid internal tensions, removed Roberto De Zerbi midwinter. Habib Beye could not stop the slide as they finished fifth.

Lucas Chevalier's year at PSG unravelled. Signed to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma, he soon lost his place to Matvei Safonov, then a late training injury cost the 24-year-old a World Cup spot with France.

Monaco's gamble on Paul Pogba failed. After a long absence he played only six Ligue 1 matches, one start, spending more time in La Turbie than on the Louis-II pitch.

Source: Le Progres