RC Lens: Robin Risser, a gamble already paying off

After a difficult start to their Ligue 1 McDonald's campaign with a home defeat against Lyon, RC Lens bounced back with an impressive away win at Le Havre. The victory was built on defensive resilience, and at the heart of it stood the club’s new goalkeeper, Robin Risser, who delivered a standout performance.

Signed from Strasbourg on 3rd July for €3m plus €2m in bonuses and a 25% resale clause, Risser arrived late in the summer, carrying a knock that prevented him from enjoying a full pre-season. Some considered his signing a gamble, given that his only top-level reference point was a strong campaign in Ligue 2 BKT with Red Star FC. But it has taken just two matches for him to win over his new teammates, coach Pierre Sage, and the Lens supporters.

His journey - as is habitual with goalkeepers - has been one that has required patience. Risser has regularly been called up to the France U21 side, when awaited in the goalkeeping ranks at RC Strasbourg. Yet, first team action was hard to come by - leading to his loan last season at Red Star.

Patience, and valuable experience in Ligue 2 BKT

Risser joined the Paris suburban club only halfway through their first campaign back in Ligue 2 BKT for five years. Following the injury of first-choice goalkeeper Quentin Bernardeau, Risser was brought in and was immediately thrust into senior first team action. A calm presence between the sticks, the Frenchman immediately showed his quality in shot-stopping ability at such a young age.

What's more, is that he was more than comfortable on the ball and in distribution for Red Star, who managed to secure their status in the second tier thanks in part to Risser's contribution over 19 matches at the historic Stade Bauer.

Now, he is gaining the plaudits at his new club - under former Red Star assistant manager and Lyon coach Pierre Sage. “He made two decisive saves in the first half. I know he’s capable of that," said Sage following Lens' win over Le Havre last weekend. Veteran defender Jonathan Gradit added: “He gives off a lot of serenity and calmness for his age. He has a big future ahead of him and is a real asset for the club.”

The Frenchman has began life well in Ligue 1 McDonald's, as Les Sang & Or  face a trip this Friday to face Stade Brestois.

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