A Sudden but Understandable Exit
Will Still, one of the brightest young minds in European football, has stepped down as the manager of French club RC Lens after just one season in charge. At only 32 years old, Still’s departure from Ligue 1 isn’t due to performance issues or a falling out with the club hierarchy but stems from deeply personal reasons. The decision comes as his partner, Sky Sports presenter Emma Saunders, continues her recovery from serious health conditions, prompting Still to return to England to be closer to her.
Still announced his resignation following Lens’ final game of the season, which ended with a resounding 4-0 victory over AS Monaco. It was a bittersweet conclusion to his brief but impactful tenure at the club. Saunders was present in the stands, highlighting the emotional weight of the moment.
Prioritizing Family Over Career
Speaking after the game, Still made his motivations crystal clear: “I won’t be the coach of RC Lens next season. It was the last season at Bollaert, for multiple reasons. The main reason that pushed me to make this decision is the fact that I need to go home. Everyone is well aware of what happened in my life. That’s why.”
Emma Saunders had revealed earlier in the season that she had been undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer. More recently, she suffered a brain infection known as encephalitis, a condition that can cause inflammation and swelling of the brain. Her recovery, while progressing, remains a significant and demanding journey.
Still added: “I’ve been in France for four years, four years that I’ve experienced intense moments. The logical choice is that I get closer to my wife for her well-being too.”
Lens Fans Show Their Support
Still leaves Lens with his head held high. He took over the club under considerable pressure but managed to guide them to an 8th-place finish in Ligue 1, ending the season on a high note with the win over Monaco. During that game, Lens supporters unfurled a banner reading “Courage Emma et Will,” a touching display of solidarity and compassion that did not go unnoticed.
Saunders later posted a photo of the two of them on the pitch at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, smiling and embracing. The caption simply read: “Bravo.”
An Unconventional Path to the Top
Still’s career has always defied conventional paths. Born in Belgium to English parents, he pursued a coaching career at an unusually young age. He gained attention for his data-driven approach to football and his meticulous preparation. When he took over as head coach of Stade de Reims in 2022 at just 30 years old, he made headlines as the youngest manager in any of Europe’s top five leagues.
His meteoric rise came despite not yet holding a UEFA Pro Licence, which resulted in the club being fined €25,000 for every game he managed. Still guided Reims to an impressive ninth-place finish before making the move to RC Lens.
Return to England and a New Chapter
Now back in England, Still is not stepping away from football entirely. He has already dipped his toes into English broadcasting, having appeared as a guest on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football in April. His articulate analysis and charisma won over viewers, leading to speculation that he could become a regular face on UK sports television.
However, his return has also caught the attention of several clubs. Among them, Southampton has emerged as a serious suitor. With the Saints preparing for another grueling season in the Championship, the club is reportedly in advanced talks with Still to take over as their new manager. His innovative approach, familiarity with the English game, and emotional connection to the UK make him an ideal candidate for a team looking to rebuild and push for promotion.
Balancing Passion and Personal Life
Will Still’s story is a testament to the challenges faced by professionals trying to balance demanding careers with personal obligations. In a field where ambition often requires sacrifice, Still’s decision to step back for the sake of his partner’s health is both admirable and deeply human.
Emma Saunders, for her part, has been a trailblazer in sports media, covering women’s football for the BBC and working across several major platforms. Her health battles have not deterred her from remaining active in the field whenever possible, and her strength has clearly inspired Still’s devotion.
What Lies Ahead
Still’s managerial potential remains unquestionable. His ability to transform teams, connect with players, and adapt tactically marks him as one of the most promising young coaches in Europe. Whether he takes the Southampton job or chooses to remain off the pitch for a while longer, his return to England is sure to be impactful.
Moreover, his decision has opened a wider conversation in the sports world about mental health, caregiver support, and the importance of prioritizing loved ones. His story will resonate with many and may even inspire a more compassionate view of how careers are navigated in high-pressure industries.
Final Thoughts
Will Still’s resignation from RC Lens might mark the end of one chapter, but it also signals the beginning of another—one grounded in empathy, strength, and resilience. As he stands by his partner through her recovery and considers his next professional steps, Still exemplifies what it means to lead with both heart and mind.
For Lens, his departure will be a loss, but for the English football scene—whether in a dugout or a studio—his return promises to be a gain. And most importantly, for Emma Saunders, it means having someone by her side as she continues her fight, not alone but supported and loved.
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