Southampton have officially appointed Will Still as their new manager, signing the 32-year-old Belgian-born English coach on a three-year contract. Still arrives from Ligue 1 side Lens, where he had been under contract until 2027, and now faces the daunting challenge of rebuilding a Southampton team recently relegated from the Premier League. This appointment marks Still’s first managerial role in his native UK, following a steady rise through coaching ranks in Belgium and France.
A journey back home
Still’s decision to leave Lens and return to England is deeply personal. Born in Belgium to English parents, he has spent much of his coaching career abroad, including stints with Belgian clubs Lierse and Beerschot before moving to France to work with Reims and then Lens. Despite having a long-term contract at Lens, Still opted to cut ties to be closer to family during a difficult period. His partner, Emma Saunders, a well-known Sky Sports presenter, has been recovering from encephalitis, a severe brain infection. Speaking to the press, Still said, “For multiple reasons, the main reason behind my decision is that I need to go back home.”
His return to the UK and Southampton in particular offers a chance for both professional progression and personal support. The club’s fans will be hoping that Still’s calm demeanor and thoughtful approach will bring much-needed stability after what was a catastrophic season for the Saints.
Southampton endured their worst Premier League campaign in decades, managing just two wins all season and confirming relegation with a record seven games still remaining. Such a dramatic fall from grace highlights the enormous task awaiting Still as he takes charge of a squad low on confidence and morale. The immediate focus will be on preparing the team for the upcoming Championship campaign and rekindling the fighting spirit needed to challenge for promotion.
Rebuilding a club and restoring belief
Still inherits a side bruised both physically and mentally by their relegation. The Saints will rely heavily on the new manager’s ability to rebuild belief and resilience during pre-season. Simon Rusk, who served as interim manager during the final stages of the season, praised the character of the players despite the difficulties faced. “Everyone this year at this football club, as difficult as it has been, when we reflect, will have new layers as a person, as a footballer,” Rusk said. “Part of that is being robust and the more experience I think you have in life, the more robust you can be if you use it properly.”
Southampton’s board had also considered Danny Röhl, Sheffield Wednesday’s manager, who previously worked with the Saints during Ralph Hasenhüttl’s era. However, Still’s appointment suggests a fresh approach focused on youth development and long-term growth. The club is betting on Still’s youth and innovative ideas, believing he can nurture emerging talents and bring tactical discipline to a squad that struggled in the Premier League.
With a three-year deal secured, Southampton are signaling their commitment to a rebuilding project that will require patience and strategic planning. The Championship presents a very different challenge from the Premier League, demanding consistency over a long season and the ability to handle the physicality and unpredictability of English second-tier football.
Still’s early task will include assessing the current squad, identifying key players who can lead the team back to the top flight, and integrating young prospects. His previous work in France showed a willingness to develop young talent and implement a dynamic playing style. Southampton fans, long accustomed to the club’s reputation for fostering academy graduates, will be eager to see if Still can restore that identity.
A new chapter for Southampton
As Southampton prepare for life outside the Premier League, the season ahead will test Still’s managerial capabilities both on and off the pitch. Beyond tactics and match preparation, he will need to unite a club and fanbase that have endured a painful campaign, restore pride, and inspire belief in a brighter future.
The 32-year-old’s arrival marks the start of a new chapter for Southampton, one grounded in rebuilding with youthful energy and strategic vision. His journey back to England may have been motivated by personal reasons, but it offers the club an opportunity to rebuild with a fresh perspective and renewed ambition.
Only time will tell how quickly Still can turn Southampton’s fortunes around, but one thing is clear: the road back to the Premier League will be tough, and it will require every ounce of resilience, innovation, and leadership the young manager can muster.
