From Third Division to Champions League in Two Years for Portuguese-French Coach

Lens is already preparing for the succession of Pierre Sage, who decided to leave the club after their recent French Cup triumph. According to RMC Sport, the Pas-de-Calais outfit is interested in Patrick Videira, the Portuguese-French coach currently at Le Mans.

The 49-year-old Videira emerges as a strong candidate following his remarkable work at Le Mans. The coach achieved the feat of guiding the team from the third division (N3) to Ligue 1 in just two seasons since arriving from AS Furiani in 2024, and he did so without significant squad overhauls. Now, in 2026/27, he could be managing in the Champions League.

Videira's success, achieved with limited financial resources, has caught the attention of Lens, who have already initiated discussions. In a recent interview with RMC, the coach highlighted his work philosophy: "We were a promoted team. We have very limited finances. We have to deal with that. But with a lot of hard work, character, and personality, our goal is to help them grow and make the club grow."

However, Lens is not alone in the race for the coach. Patrick Videira, who has one year remaining on his contract with Le Mans, is also a target for another Ligue 1 club. Furthermore, the same source confirms that Portuguese clubs have sounded out his situation in recent weeks.

The departure of 47-year-old Pierre Sage was one of the day's significant events in French football. The coach, who led Lens to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and a French Cup victory, communicated his decision to leave to the club's management last Tuesday.

According to RMC Sport, Sage is in talks with Crystal Palace, who are seeking a replacement for Oliver Glasner, whose contract has expired. However, the South London club isn't the only suitor, and the French coach's future remains uncertain.