Will Still 'hungry' as new Auxerre era begins
Will Still has declared himself "hungry" to get started after officially being unveiled as AJ Auxerre's new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 Ligue 1 McDonald's season.
Speaking alongside executive president Baptiste Malherbe and sporting director David Wantiez on Wednesday, the 33-year-old outlined his ambitions for the club just a day before the squad returned for pre-season testing.
'I’m hungry, I can’t wait for it to begin,' Still said. 'My time without a club did me a lot of good. I was able to take a step back and spend time with my family. I wanted to take my time to make sure my next move was the right one.'
Still succeeds Christophe Pélissier after being appointed in June, returning to Ligue 1 following his previous spells with Stade de Reims and Lens.
Busy start to the transfer window
Auxerre have already been among the busiest clubs in Ligue 1 this summer, strengthening the squad well before the start of pre-season.
The Burgundy outfit have made Danny Namaso's move from FC Porto permanent, while attacking midfielder Arthur Piedfort has arrived from Westerlo and goalkeeper Mamadou Diop has joined from Grenoble Foot 38. Romain Faivre has also returned on loan from Bournemouth for a second successive season, while the club is also expected to complete the signing of a new left-back.
'The squad has been analysed,' Still explained. 'The only objective is to improve the team. We've already brought in some good signings who will raise the level and increase competition for places.'
A familiar tactical identity
Still also confirmed that Auxerre will continue with the 4-3-3 system that served the club well under Pélissier last season.
'The 4-3-3 was my preferred system at Reims,' he said. 'My footballing identity is quite clear. We want a dynamic team that presses and causes problems for the opposition.'
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