Key Takeaways:
- Auxerre announced the appointment of Will Still on a contract running until 2028
- Still replaces Christophe Pelissier, who was dismissed at the end of the season despite securing Ligue 1 survival
- Still’s managerial journey spans roles at Lierse, Beershot, Reims, Lens, and a brief spell at Southampton last season
Ligue 1 Side Secure Will Still for Long-Term Project
Will Still, who previously managed Lens and Southampton, has accepted the role of head coach at Auxerre following the departure of Christophe Pelissier. Auxerre confirmed the long-term agreement, with Still contracted to lead the club until 2028. Pelissier, despite helping the team avoid relegation, was released from his duties at the conclusion of the season.
✍️ L’AJA est heureuse d’annoncer l’arrivée de Will Still au poste d’entraîneur jusqu’en juin 2028, plus une année en option.
Plus d’infos 👉 https://t.co/gF0NBmnpa5#TeamAJA #IconiquesAuthentiques pic.twitter.com/ULfZrxhbMo
— AJ Auxerre (@AJA) June 12, 2026
Managerial Background and Early Career Path
Still is notable for making his mark as a manager despite never having played professionally. He opted to focus on coaching from a young age, starting his career in Belgium with Lierse and Beershot. In 2021, he joined Reims as an assistant to Oscar Garcia, before stepping up to take the helm as head coach in October 2022. He remained in charge at Reims until 2024.
Recent Moves: Lens and Southampton Spells
Following his stint at Reims, Still secured a three-year contract with Lens. However, his time with the club from Artois was cut short at the end of the first year (2024-2025), as he left to support his partner during illness in England. Most recently, Still was appointed by Southampton at the beginning of last season, but his tenure was short-lived, concluding on November 2 after the 13th Championship round.
