What happened: RC Lens manager Pierre Sage was named Ligue 1 Coach of the Year at the UNFP Trophees ceremony. The award caps a remarkable debut top-flight campaign in which Sage led Lens from Lyon's reserve setup to a 2nd-place finish. Lens also secured a Coupe de France final berth and Champions League qualification under his watch.

Why it matters: The recognition validates Sage's rapid rise and Lens' transformation into title challengers in a single season. Champions League football and a domestic cup final represent a significant financial and sporting windfall for the club. The award also strengthens Sage's profile amid a coaching market where top clubs across Europe are reshuffling benches.

What to watch: Watch the Coupe de France final and Lens' Champions League draw to see how Sage builds on the breakthrough season. Speculation around bigger-club interest in Sage may intensify this summer.