Key Takeaways:
- Pierre Sage received the Ligue 1 Manager of the Season accolade at the UNFP ceremony in Paris on Monday night
- Lens have pushed Paris Saint-Germain in the title race this season, maintaining a mathematical chance for the championship with two matches left to play
- Lens, managed by Sage, will compete against OGC Nice in the Coupe de France final later this month
Award Recognition at UNFP Ceremony
Pierre Sage, at the helm of RC Lens, was named Ligue 1 Manager of the Season during Monday’s UNFP awards event in Paris. This recognition comes after Lens enjoyed a significant turnaround compared to last season, when, under Will Still, the club failed to secure any European qualification, finishing in 8th spot.
Ligue 1 Coach of the Year… PIERRE SAGE 👔👏rcl pic.twitter.com/9wTtBjFBrQ
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) May 11, 2026
Lens Challenge PSG in the Title Race
This campaign has seen Lens push reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Ligue 1 title race. With just two fixtures remaining, Lens maintain a slim, mathematical hope of overtaking PSG at the summit. However, a single draw from Luis Enrique’s PSG side would be enough for them to retain the title.
Sage Triumphs Among Stiff Competition
The award for Ligue 1 Manager of the Season went to Sage, as he outperformed fellow nominees Luis Enrique, Lyon’s Paulo Fonseca, Lille’s Bruno Genesio, and Lorient’s Olivier Pantaloni. While PSG are on the brink of another championship, Sage’s recognition marks a notable achievement that Luis Enrique will not claim this year.
Upcoming Coupe de France Final
There could yet be further achievement on the horizon for Sage and Lens. The club is scheduled to play OGC Nice in the Coupe de France final later this month, presenting an opportunity for another piece of silverware before the season concludes.
