Annecy faces an English club during pre‑season

Annecy is set to meet a Premier League side in a friendly scheduled for mid‑July, a first in several years. The challenge, announced on July 5, comes as the Ligue 2 side sits 7th with 52 points (15 wins, 7 draws, 12 losses) and a recent 1‑2 defeat to Rodez on May 9 2026. Coaches hope the encounter will boost squad cohesion before the league restart.

Why is this English test significant?

Sporting director Jean‑Claude Bouvier said playing a high‑level opponent lets the team gauge its physical and technical standards. “It’s a chance for our players to experience intensity not found in Ligue 2,” he explained. The English club, unnamed in the release, will field a mixed squad, giving Annecy varied opposition. The experience should help manager Laurent Guyot fine‑tune tactics ahead of the season opener.

Which players will be put to the test?

Among the expected starters, striker Kévin Bérard, who has netted 12 goals this campaign, will be closely watched. Mid‑fielder Romain Gauthier, known for ball recovery, must prove his stamina against English mids famed for pressing. Goalkeeper Maxime Leduc will test his reflexes against high‑quality shots, a benefit as Annecy has conceded 39 goals this season.

What follows after the match?

After the test, Annecy will return to its training base in Annecy‑Le Vieux‑Port to finalize preparations before August 1. Two more friendlies against French clubs are on the schedule. The aim remains to close the 15‑point gap to league leaders Estac Troyes and push for a top‑table finish. Fans are already awaiting the match report, hoping to see performances that will drive the rest of the season.