Le Mans FC launches a six‑match friendly tour

Le Mans FC confirmed on Wednesday, July 3 2026, a schedule of six preparatory fixtures before the Ligue 2 season kicks off. Two games will be played in Ivory Coast, while the remaining four will take place in France between July 10 and July 24. The aim, according to the sporting director, is to test new signings and fine‑tune the tactical setup ahead of the official restart.

Which opponents await the club?

The first test will be on July 10 in Abidjan against local side ASEC Mimosas, followed on July 13 by a clash with the Ivorian champions, Stade d'Abidjan. Back on French soil, Le Mans will face RC Lens II on July 17, then FC Metz on July 20. The final two matches pit the Verts against the city team of Tours on July 22 and AS Nancy on July 24. All dates are club‑confirmed and tickets go on sale next week.

Why are these games vital for the campaign?

Le Mans FC currently sits 2nd in Ligue 2 with 62 points, recording 16 wins, 14 draws and 4 losses from 34 games, and a recent form of WDDWD. With 50 goals scored and 31 conceded (+19 goal difference), the side is 5 points behind leaders ESTAC Troyes. The friendlies provide a rare chance to tighten a defence that has let in 31 goals and to cement an attack already netting 50 times.

Which players will be in the spotlight?

The staff announced that young Ivorian striker Koffi Kouadio, scouted during the latest draft, will debut against ASEC Mimosas. Veteran midfielder Julien Maupay returns from injury and is expected to play the full 90 minutes against Stade d'Abidjan. Starting goalkeeper Baptiste Moulin will guard the net in the RC Lens II fixture, giving backup Maxime Lefèvre a chance to face a high‑level opponent.

What lies ahead?

After the Ivorian tour, the club plans to finalize remaining transfer deals before July 31, notably a possible loan of Moroccan centre‑back Youssef Bennani. The packed schedule will allow manager Stéphane Moulin to shape his XI before the Ligue 2 opener on August 2 against FC Metz. Fans can watch the matches live on the club’s official website, where video highlights will be posted each evening.