As he himself admits, Yannick Cahuzac has experienced the last few days “with great intensity”. Promoted to head coach of RC Lens following Dino Toppmöller’s surprise departure, the former midfielder attended a press conference on Thursday on the eve of the big match against AS Monaco. His first in the role of head coach.

It is a role that Cahuzac knows he will have to learn on the job, but for which he – who is currently studying for his professional football coaching qualification (BEPF) – nevertheless feels ready. Whilst he highlights the role of “top blokes” and “top tacticians such as Franck (Haise), Régis (Le Bris) and Olive (Pantaloni)” – who instilled in him a love of the game and tactics – the 41-year-old new manager nevertheless feels he does not yet possess the full “package” required for his new role.

This is particularly because everything to do with the media and communication remains, for the time being, something he needs to learn to enjoy. But as for the rest, Cahuzac is delighted. “I’m lucky to be able to learn this trade with some brilliant mentors. I don’t yet consider myself a number one, but I’m on my way to becoming one,” he explained to journalists.