Ligue 1 Summer 2025: Transfers, Pre-Season Highlights, and Broadcast Changes

Pre-Season Preparations: Clubs Gear Up for 2025-2026

The excitement for the upcoming Ligue 1 season is palpable as clubs across France dive into their pre-season routines. With the official league kick-off slated for the weekend of August 17-18, 2025, teams are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations.

Most Ligue 1 clubs are currently engaged in a series of friendly matches, testing new tactics and integrating fresh signings into their squads. These games are crucial for managers to assess player fitness, experiment with lineups, and build team chemistry ahead of a demanding season. Notably, Paris Saint-Germain stands apart from the rest as their players enjoy a well-earned break after a grueling campaign. The Parisians will return to action on August 13, facing Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Super Cup—a prestigious curtain-raiser that promises to set the tone for their season.

Youssef El-Arabi: A Veteran’s Return to Ligue 1

One of the summer’s most talked-about stories is the return of Moroccan striker Youssef El-Arabi to Ligue 1, as he signs with FC Nantes.

At 38, El-Arabi’s comeback is both unexpected and inspiring. Fourteen years after leaving Caen, he rejoins the French top flight with a remarkable record: 322 goals in 610 professional appearances. FC Nantes has secured his services on a one-year contract with an option for another season. The club is betting on El-Arabi’s experience and proven goal-scoring ability to bolster their attacking lineup. Fans will get their first glimpse of the veteran in yellow as Nantes faces Guingamp in a friendly on July 19, 2025.

Transfer Market Buzz: Big Moves and Fresh Faces

The transfer window is in full swing, with several Ligue 1 clubs making headline-worthy moves and chasing promising talent.

Strasbourg’s Defensive Reinforcements

Strasbourg has made a statement by acquiring 21-year-old defender Soumaila Coulibaly from Borussia Dortmund for €7.5 million. The young talent has committed to the Alsace side until 2029, signaling the club’s ambition to build a strong defensive core for the future.
In addition to Coulibaly, Strasbourg is close to finalizing a deal for Tyrese Noubissie, a 16-year-old prospect from Manchester City’s Academy. These moves highlight the club’s focus on youth development and long-term planning.

Midfield Battles: Rennes and Lyon Eye Lees-Melou

Competition is heating up for Brest midfielder Pierre Lees-Melou, with both Rennes and Lyon expressing strong interest. Lees-Melou, eager to play European football, could be a key addition for either side as they look to strengthen their midfield options.

Rennes Pursues Quentin Merlin

Rennes is also in negotiations with Marseille for the signature of France U21 international left-back Quentin Merlin. Securing Merlin would add dynamism and depth to their defensive ranks.

Nantes Faces Castelletto Departure

Meanwhile, FC Nantes may soon bid farewell to Jean-Charles Castelletto. The defender is reportedly set to join Qatari club Al-Duhail, despite having undergone a medical with Al-Jazira. This potential move would leave a gap in Nantes’ backline, making defensive reinforcements a priority.

AS Monaco: Friendlies and Fresh Talent

Monaco continues to sharpen their squad ahead of the new season, with a friendly against Nottingham Forest on July 19, 2025. The club remains active in the transfer market, scouting new prospects to maintain their competitive edge.
A major development is the reported arrival of Paul Pogba on a two-year deal. After serving a doping ban, Pogba’s return to Ligue 1 with Monaco is a significant boost for both the club and the league.

Olivier Giroud’s Homecoming

Another high-profile return sees Olivier Giroud donning the colors of LOSC Lille. The veteran striker’s experience and leadership are expected to make an immediate impact, both on and off the pitch.

Broadcasting Revolution: DAZN and Ligue 1+

In a major shift for French football fans, DAZN has secured the rights to broadcast Ligue 1 in France until 2029. This new partnership with the French Professional Football League (LFP) includes the distribution of Ligue 1+, the LFP’s innovative direct-to-consumer streaming service.

Ligue 1+ is set to launch on August 15, 2025, and will offer fans exclusive access to eight live matches every weekend. The platform aims to enhance the viewing experience, making Ligue 1 more accessible to supporters across France and beyond. This move comes at a pivotal time, as the league seeks to expand its reach and engage a new generation of football enthusiasts. For more details, visit the official announcement here.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect This Season

With pre-season in full swing, exciting transfers, and new broadcast options, Ligue 1 is poised for an action-packed 2025-2026 campaign. Clubs are strengthening their squads, veterans are making dramatic returns, and fans have more ways than ever to follow the action.

As the countdown to August 17-18 continues, supporters can look forward to a season filled with intriguing storylines, fierce competition, and the promise of unforgettable moments on the pitch. For ongoing updates, check the latest Ligue 1 news at L’Équipe and Get French Football News.