Allan Saint-Maximin, flamboyant and rigorous, has Lens onside before Nice visit | OneFootball

Allan Saint-Maximin’s flamboyance masks a disciplined presence that has quickly won over Lens, who feel like home to him, as they head to Nice on Saturday for matchweek 32.

According to L'Équipe, he equalised late in the 3-3 draw at Brest on 24 April, then sprinted to the bench shouting a message some online mistook for arrogance. He says it referred to his half-time belief that, if Brest scored three, Lens could do the same.

He maintains he has never been a problem player and says the bling is also a form of protection. Punctual, respectful and keen to support everyone around the club, he prefers honesty even if it sometimes closes doors.

The 29-year-old has represented 10 clubs across Germany, England, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Mexico. At Nice in 2017, Lucien Favre was startled by his soloist streak, while ex-director Julien Fournier saw an endearing football lover and even Ben Arfa echoes.

Former Bastia captain Jean-Louis Leca drove his winter arrival. Saint-Maximin says he returned as a free agent after leaving Club América, did not discuss salary with his friend, and vowed to give the maximum to help Lens chase the league and the Cup.

Lens coach Pierre Sage delights in his creativity and calls him a player who can tilt matches.

Source: L'Équipe