Relegated Southampton appoint Will Still new manager

Relegated Premier League side Southampton have named 32-year-old Will Still as their new manager on a three-year contract as the club looks to rebuild following a poor season.

Still joins Saints from the French side RC Lens, where he guided the club to an eighth-place finish in Ligue 1 this season.

His appointment was officially announced less than an hour before Southampton’s final game of the season against Arsenal at St Mary’s.

The Saints are already consigned to the bottom place in the Premier League, having managed just two wins and 12 points from 37 matches heading into their season finale.

“I’m extremely proud and excited to have joined Southampton; there is huge potential here, and we have a great opportunity to do something special,” said Still.

“The project that has been laid out to me is very impressive, and, altogether, I believe we can build a clear identity and a very positive future for the team.”

Still began his managerial journey in Belgium, with stints at Lierse and Beerschot, before rising to prominence at Stade de Reims, where he became the youngest manager in Europe’s top five leagues. His success at Reims earned him a move to Lens last summer.

A turbulent season saw Southampton part ways with managers Russell Martin and Ivan Juric, prompting a fresh direction under Still as the club targets an immediate return to the Premier League.

Southampton’s technical director, Johannes Spors, praised the appointment.

“Will is a young, innovative manager who has already gained significant experience throughout his career. We were extremely impressed by both his track record and our conversations with him.

“What stood out was his clear footballing philosophy, his strong sense of identity, and his adaptability that will be essential in the Championship next season.”