Stade de Reims thriving under Luka Elsner's guidance this season

Stade de Reims decided to close the chapter on manager Will Still and begin a new one with Luka Elsner on their sidelines. After two seasons at Le Havre, the 42-year-old has Reims among the best squads in Ligue 1 so far in the early stages of the 2024-25 season.

Elsner and his team have only one loss this season while playing Olympique de Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain to impressive draws. One reason why Reims are off to a fantastic start is their attack as the squad has recorded 14 goals.

Les Rouges et Blancs are currently fourth in the Ligue 1 table and a UEFA Champions League qualification spot and trail league leaders AS Monaco by five points. The outstanding form that Reims are currently experiencing reflects the remarks made by the Slovenian manager.

"I’m thrilled to have joined Stade de Reims. It’s a club with a rich history and tradition, and I can’t wait to work with the players and staff to reach our goals... I was really impressed by Stade de Reims' ambitious project, which aligns with my own values. I’m confident we can achieve great things together."

One player thriving under Elsner's management is Keito Nakamura. The Japanese forward has already matched his goal tally from last season in just seven games this campaign, netting four goals and adding an assist for Reims.

He's also been in fine form heading into the FIFA break, scoring in each of his last four matches. This month, Elsner spoke to L'Equipe and noted what has led to Nakamura thriving under his watch.

"Keito’s current success is brilliant proof that you can be extremely disciplined defensively and still make a decisive impact. He’s a great example."

Last season, Stade Brestois was the surprise team that eventually punched their ticket to the Champions League, and Olympique Lyonnais, who was in a relegation battle at one point, made it to a Coupe de France final.

There's no doubt that Elsner is telling his squad that this campaign, they can be the ones who pull off this impressive performance that can catch many by surprise.

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