Will Still Leaves Lens After Successful Season To Prioritise Family In England

Add as a preferred source on Google

Will Still has decided to leave his role as the manager of Lens after one season, citing a need to return to England to be near his family. The 32-year-old announced his departure following Lens' 4-0 win against Monaco at Stade Bollaert-Delelis. This victory marked the end of their Ligue 1 campaign.

Still took over from Franck Haise last June and guided Lens to an eighth-place finish in Ligue 1. Under his leadership, the team won 15 out of 34 league matches, achieving a win rate of 44.12%. Only three other coaches—Daniel Leclercq, Haise, and Francois Brisson—have recorded higher win percentages for Lens in the era where three points are awarded for a win.

The primary reason for Still's return to England is personal. His partner was diagnosed with encephalitis in March, prompting him to prioritise her health and well-being. "I will not be the coach of Lens next season," he stated during a press conference after the match. "Today was my last match of the season at Bollaert."

Despite being linked with a managerial position at Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League, Still emphasised that his decision was driven by family needs rather than career opportunities. He expressed that being closer to his partner is a logical choice for him at this time.

The announcement came after an impressive performance by Lens against Monaco, which secured them an eighth-place finish in Ligue 1. The team celebrated their successful campaign with fans at Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

Still's tenure at Lens may have been brief, but it was impactful. His leadership brought stability and success to the club during his time as head coach. As he steps away from football management for now, his focus remains on supporting his family back home in England.