AS Saint-Étienne coach Ian Cathro pledges ambition for Sochaux opener, names two young prospects

AS Saint‑Étienne (ASSE) concluded its summer preparation with a 4‑3 friendly victory over Venezia, finishing the pre‑season with two wins, two defeats and one draw. Coach Ian Cathro said the team will travel to Sochaux for the Ligue 2 opener "with the ambition to win" despite the limited relevance of the friendlies once the league starts.

Cathro also highlighted two emerging players he believes can challenge the senior squad. Nineteen‑year‑old midfielder Adam Baallal, who logged 225 minutes in the friendlies and scored twice, including the decisive goal against Venezia, is being considered for an offensive role. Seventeen‑year‑old central defender Nathan Kasia, a product of the club’s academy who has signed a professional contract through 2029, is seen as a solid defensive option. Both players are expected to be part of the squad for the match at FC Sochaux‑Montbéliard.