The recent football season proved challenging for AS Saint-Étienne, culminating in relegation from France`s top tier, Ligue 1. Amidst the team`s difficulties, one player consistently stood out: 20-year-old Belgian striker Lucas Stassin. Despite a campaign where individual performance often felt overshadowed by collective struggles, Stassin delivered notable results. However, it is now being widely reported that this promising young talent is seeking a move away from the club.
Stassin`s contribution to the Saint-Étienne side was significant. In 29 appearances, he registered an impressive 12 goals and provided 4 assists. This output was a rare positive in a season where the club managed only 30 points. His form was particularly strong towards the conclusion of the campaign, finding the back of the net nine times in his final ten matches. This burst of scoring demonstrated his potential and adaptability, even within a team structure that was facing considerable pressure.
The primary motivation behind Stassin`s reported desire for a transfer appears directly linked to his international aspirations. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico on the horizon, Stassin holds ambitions of representing Belgium. While he has not yet received a senior call-up for the `Red Devils`, the striker reportedly believes that spending the next season competing in Ligue 2 could hinder his prospects of breaking into the national squad. It presents a curious dynamic: excelling in a difficult environment might not be perceived as sufficient proof of quality compared to simply playing in a higher-ranked league, regardless of personal statistics.
This development contrasts with previous statements from Saint-Étienne`s coaching staff. Just last month, manager Eirik Horneland indicated he `expected` Stassin to remain at the club and be a key part of their plans for the upcoming Ligue 2 season. A departure would undoubtedly require a significant adjustment in the team`s offensive strategy as they aim for an immediate return to Ligue 1.
Stassin`s career trajectory has seen a steady rise. After progressing through the esteemed academy system at RSC Anderlecht, where he made a handful of senior appearances, he moved to Westerlo. His time there was productive, yielding 11 goals in 32 games, which subsequently earned him the transfer to Saint-Étienne.
For Saint-Étienne, losing their top scorer would be a notable setback as they embark on the challenging task of navigating Ligue 2. For Stassin, a move would mean finding a new club, presumably in a top division, where he can continue his development trajectory and remain firmly on the radar of Belgian national team selectors. The upcoming transfer window is poised to be a critical period for the young striker.
As the summer unfolds, Lucas Stassin`s position at Saint-Étienne appears increasingly uncertain. His ambition is clearly focused on reaching the pinnacle of international football. Whether this path necessitates a move away from the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard is the key question, driven less by discontent with his role or form, and more by the strategic pursuit of a World Cup dream.
