French football: FC Nantes, OM, and RC Lens updates

Various developments are occurring across French professional football. At FC Nantes, 17-year-old striker Loan Merrifield has signed his first professional contract. The club is simultaneously navigating administrative and ownership challenges, including an upcoming DNCG commission hearing and the rejection of a buyout offer by the Social and Economic Committee.

Olympique de Marseille is facing sporting and financial pressures following a string of recent defeats. Despite the club's 17th place standing in Ligue 1, sporting director Grégory Lorenzi has confirmed that manager Bruno Genesio’s project remains intact through 2028. The club is also preparing for a financial audit by the DNCG in December.

In coaching news, RC Lens has appointed Vincent Carlier as the first-team assistant coach under Yannick Cahuzac. Carlier, formerly of the reserve team, is succeeded by Walid Mesloub at the helm of the Groupe Élite.

Upcoming match schedules include a Ligue 2 fixture between Sochaux and Boulogne on October 9, 2026, broadcast on beIN Sports Max, and an Espoirs match between France and Switzerland on October 6, 2026, airing on France.