Thauvin becomes Lens captain for 2026-2027 season

Florian Thauvin is officially the new captain of RC Lens for the 2026-2027 season. The 2018 World Cup winner confirmed the appointment at a press conference on Friday, as L'Équipe had previously reported when manager Dino Toppmöller signalled the winger was the frontrunner following Adrien Thomasson's departure to Rennes.

"I'm proud and honoured to be the guarantor of this team, to be captain. It's not extra pressure, it's a logical next step for me. I'm very happy about it, but there will be no change in my attitude," said the 33-year-old forward.

Thauvin takes the armband at a time of renewal at Les Lensois. Although Florian Sotoca formally retains the club captaincy at 35 years old, his playing time has dropped significantly over the past year, paving the way for fresh leadership. Thauvin's first major test as captain comes on Sunday in the Trophée des Championes against PSG at Bollaert (20:45).