Who is the former FC Metz player taking charge at Amanvillers?

It is Julien Bouchard, a former midfield stalwart of FC Metz, who accepted the technical director role at Amanvillers on July 10 2026. After a career featuring 112 Ligue 1 appearances and two spells at US Lorient, he returns to the Lorraine area to “revitalize youth football,” as he stated at the club’s press conference.

Why does this project matter for FC Metz?

The Ligue 1 side, currently 18th with 17 points (3 wins, 8 draws, 23 losses from 34 games), struggles to stay out of the relegation zone. With only 32 goals scored and 76 conceded, a ‑44 goal difference highlights an urgent need for fresh talent. Bouchard hopes his experience, including the 0‑0 draw with Nice on May 17 2026, will inspire Amanvillers’ teenagers to aim for FC Metz’s first team.

How will the project be implemented?

The plan outlines three phases: first, building a modern training centre on the Stade Municipal site, partially funded by FC Metz’s solidarity fund. Next, weekly sessions for 12‑ to 18‑year‑olds, where Bouchard will apply tactics learned under Frédéric Antonetti. Finally, a scouting partnership will allow the top players to join FC Metz’s youth squads for the upcoming season.

What early outcomes are expected?

Training kicked off on July 12 and has already drawn over 30 adolescents. The club aims for at least ten of them to be selected for FC Metz’s pre‑season camps by summer’s end. If successful, the initiative could help reverse the recent form – DDLLL in the last five matches – and narrow the 59‑point gap with leaders Paris Saint‑Germain.

Julien Bouchard emphasized that “football passion must start early,” recalling his own rise through Metz’s youth ranks. FC Metz is closely monitoring progress, convinced each youngster developed at Amanvillers offers a chance to strengthen the senior squad and improve the current season’s record.