The Pau FC has started its sixth season in Ligue 2 with two out of three new goalkeepers and a well-established hierarchy from the beginning. Young Noah Raveyre (20 years old), who came from AC Milan, was unexpectedly appointed as the number one by the staff and the management, fully aware of the risks involved. In the end, the outcome was disappointing. Raveyre, who was not decisive enough, also seemed to lose confidence over time.
During his first interim period, Esteban Salles did not impress, but he redeemed himself at the end of the season when Thierry Debes decided to shake up the hierarchy definitively. Despite making two major errors that tainted his season, Tao Paradowski also had his chances twice when the new coach took over. However, he chose to go to Ibiza on the last day of the winter transfer window.
Defense-wise, the Pau FC’s defense had a very strong start to the season, even being the most impermeable in the championship after nine games. The good understanding between captain Jean Ruiz and Anthony Briançon was one of the key reasons. Unfortunately, the former Stéphanois was often hindered by injuries. Ousmane Kanté had limited playing time but managed to excel against Ligue 2 reference attackers. When playing as a central defender, Daylam Meddah also managed to stand out, despite being somewhat lackadaisical. Setigui Karamoko was relatively disappointing before being left out of the squad. On the wings, Joseph Kalulu confirmed his season on the left. With no real competition since last year, he has been the most used outfield player for Pau this season and has generally been solid. On the right side, Tom Pouilly improved defensively this season, but felt more comfortable under the orders of Nicolas Usaño, who wanted very offensive full-backs. Neil Glossoa showed potential for improvement to establish himself at this level.
In the midfield, Daylam Meddah started the season as a defensive midfielder under Nicolas Usaño, impressing in the early matches. However, he often had to help out in defense to secure his place in that position. He was supported by Steeve Beusnard, who, after initial physical setbacks, had a very good second half of the season, proving his reliability and securing a contract extension until 2028.
Rayan Touzghar was also a pleasant surprise. Although the young Moroccan could have been more decisive, his work rate was commendable. Antonin Bobichon, who contributed with 6 goals and 4 assists, saw his playing time diminish significantly with the arrivals of Thierry Debes and Julien Anziani on the team. Cheikh Fall was sparingly used but mostly reliable, thanks to his physical impact and aerial ability. Kylian Gasnier and Edhy Zuliani had less playing time than they had hoped for.
In the attack, talking about Pau FC’s attack this season would not be complete without mentioning Giovani Versini. The revelation from the National league last season has become one of the best players in Ligue 2, as evidenced by his nomination for the LFP trophies. With 9 goals and 4 assists, the young Marseille winger quickly became a fan favorite and was rewarded with a call-up to the French national team. These performances will undoubtedly help him reach even greater heights, despite his contract running until 2028 with Pau.
Kyliane Dong started well but then had a downturn, ending the season on a positive note with five decisive contributions since early March. The Moroccan striker Omar Sadik, acquired by Barcelona, started well with 3 goals in his first five games but lost confidence as the season progressed. Omar Sissoko took advantage before a nasty ankle injury limited him to 4 goals. Rayane Messi, signed by Strasbourg, scored twice but struggled before leaving Béarn earlier than expected for Saudi Arabia.
