Ligue 2: Pau FC Training Resumes and GF38 Signs Jules Mouton

Pau FC will be the first of 18 Ligue 2 teams to resume collective training for the 2026-2027 season on Monday, June 22. The club’s summer preparation begins alongside the confirmed departure of six players from the squad, according to official club statements.

Who is leaving the Pau FC squad?

Pau FC confirmed that four players are returning to their parent clubs following the expiration of their loans. Kyliane Dong returns to Augsbourg, Omar Sadik to Espanyol Barcelona, Omar Sissoko to Paris FC, and Edhy Zuliani to Toulouse.

The club also confirmed the departure of two players whose contracts have ended. Central defender Jean Ruiz, who joined the club in 2022 and made 133 appearances across all competitions, will not extend his stay. Julien Anziani, who arrived during the winter transfer window, is also leaving the team.

Did You Know? Jean Ruiz served as a mainstay in the Pau FC defense since 2022, totaling 133 matches played for the club across all competitions.

How is Grenoble Foot 38 expanding its roster?

Grenoble Foot 38 (GF38) is currently staffing its newly created “Groupe Pro 2” project. The club announced the arrival of Romain Da Silva from AS Furiani and 21-year-old defensive midfielder Jules Mouton from AS Saint-Étienne.

According to the club’s official website, Mouton completed all stages of the Saint-Étienne training system. He recorded 25 appearances in National 3 with the ASSE reserve team during the 2025-2026 season.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Pau FC’s decision to start training before any other Ligue 2 side could be a strategic attempt to gain a conditioning advantage. However, the simultaneous loss of a veteran presence like Jean Ruiz creates a tactical gap in the central defense that the club may need to address quickly.

What happens next for these clubs?

Pau FC may look to the transfer market to replace the experience lost by Ruiz and the depth lost by the four returning loan players. The early start to training suggests the technical staff may prioritize immediate fitness and tactical integration for the remaining squad.

AS SAINT-ÉTIENNE – CLERMONT FOOT 63 (3 – 2) – Highlights – (ASSE – CF63) / 2021-2022

Grenoble Foot 38 is likely to continue adding to the “Groupe Pro 2” project. The signing of Mouton suggests a focus on integrating youth players with experience in the National 3 tier.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Pau FC resume collective training?
Training begins on Monday, June 22, making them the first of 18 Ligue 2 teams to start their 2026-2027 summer preparation.

Which players returned to their parent clubs from Pau FC?
Kyliane Dong (Augsbourg), Omar Sadik (Espanyol Barcelona), Omar Sissoko (Paris FC), and Edhy Zuliani (Toulouse) have all returned to their respective clubs.

Who is Jules Mouton?
Mouton is a 21-year-old defensive midfielder who joined Grenoble Foot 38’s Groupe Pro 2 from AS Saint-Étienne after playing 25 National 3 games in the 2025-2026 season.

Do you think an early training start provides a significant competitive advantage in Ligue 2?