PLAYERS TO WATCH

SERGIO RAMOS (Paris Saint-Germain)

Now 35, Ramos’ leadership, European knowhow and combative style will be more of use to PSG than his defensive acumen. His arrival doesn’t bode well for Presnel Kimpembe, who continues to disappoint on big occasions.

MAXENCE CAQUERET (Lyon)

Not always a starter under Rudi Garcia but consistently irresistible, the 21-year-old midfielder is central to OL’s future. Coach Peter Bosz would do well to build his team around the talented Frenchman.

BURAK YILMAZ (Lille)

Decisive in the title race, the 36-year-old Turkey striker was arguably European football’s signing of the 2020-21 season. With a new coach and likely considerable squad turnover, another 18 goals would be very welcome.

WISSAM BEN YEDDER (Monaco)

An inconsistent season saw Monaco’s captain used more sparingly in the spring, but the 30-year-old France striker reacted well and finished the year in some of the best form of his career.

TEREM MOFFI (Lorient)

An €8m fee was substantial for a club like Lorient but it proved well spent as the Nigerian striker’s power, pace and intelligent finishing kept his side up having scored a memorable winner against PSG.

LOIC BADE

(Rennes)

An impressive debut season helped promoted Lens to seventh and convinced Rennes to part with up to €20m. Potentially Ligue 1’s next great defensive talent, his transition from a three to four-man defence will be interesting.

JONATHAN DAVID (Lille)

After a €30m move from Gent, a glacial start – contributing just two goals in 25 outings – was concerning. But the Canadian blossomed in 2021 with 11 subsequent strikes, including winners against PSG and Marseille.

JEREMY DOKU (Rennes)

The frighteningly skilful Belgium winger continued a strong end to the domestic season by impressing at Euro 2020. Barely 19, consistency and end product remain elusive but this should be a breakout year.

TEJI SAVANIER (Montpellier)

Ligue 1’s best-kept secret, a supremely gifted allround creative midfielder. Often championed for a full international call-up, the 29-year-old was one of the three over-age players in France’s Olympic squad.

ARKADIUSZ MILIK (Marseille)

After ten goals in 16 games last season, the Pole, who missed Euro 2020 with a knee injury, may be the No.9 that OM have long searched for. As part of Jorge Sampaoli’s more gung-ho side, he will certainly get chances.