AS Saint-Etienne, also known as ASSE or Les Verts, is a legendary football club with a rich history and a passionate fanbase. In this article, we will take a closer look at the club, its achievements, famous players, stadium, fan culture, rivalries, and recent years.
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AS Saint-Etienne holds a special place in French football. Founded in 1919, the club has enjoyed several periods of success and remains one of the most decorated clubs in the country.
Club History
Foundation and Early Years
AS Saint-Etienne was founded by Geoffroy Guichard, a grocery store owner, and quickly gained popularity in the region. The club’s early years saw them establishing themselves in the French football landscape and laying the foundation for future success.
Golden Era: Dominance in the 1960s and 1970s
The 1960s and 1970s marked AS Saint-Etienne’s golden era. Under the leadership of influential coach Albert Batteux, the club experienced unprecedented success. They won a record ten Ligue 1 titles, including a remarkable run of five consecutive championships from 1967 to 1971.
Decline and Resurgence in Recent Years
After the golden era, AS Saint-Etienne faced a period of decline. However, in recent years, the club has shown signs of resurgence. With new management and investment, they aim to reclaim their former glory.
Famous Players
AS Saint-Etienne has been home to numerous talented players throughout its history. Some of the most notable include:
Michel Platini: The French football legend began his professional career at AS Saint-Etienne and went on to achieve greatness both domestically and internationally.
Hervé Revelli: A prolific goal scorer, Revelli played a crucial role in the club’s success during the 1960s and 1970s.
Jean-Michel Larqué: Larqué was an exceptional midfielder and a key figure in AS Saint-Etienne’s dominant era.
Dominique Rocheteau: Known as “The Green Angel,” Rocheteau became a fan favorite for his skill and passion on the field.
Stadium and Fans
AS Saint-Etienne calls the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium home. This iconic venue has a capacity of over 42,000 and is known for its electric atmosphere during matches. The stadium has witnessed numerous historic moments and remains an integral part of the club’s identity.
Les Verts, as AS Saint-Etienne fans are known, are some of the most dedicated and passionate supporters in French football. Their unwavering loyalty and vocal support make every match an unforgettable experience.
Rivalries
AS Saint-Etienne has fierce rivalries with two other French clubs: Lyon and Marseille. The Lyon derby is particularly intense, as the two clubs compete for regional dominance. Matches against Marseille also carry historical significance and evoke intense emotions among the players and fans.
Achievements
AS Saint-Etienne’s list of achievements is impressive. They have won the Ligue 1 title a record ten times and lifted the Coupe de France on six occasions. The club has also experienced success on the European stage, reaching the UEFA Cup finals and semifinals multiple times.
Recent Years
In recent years, AS Saint-Etienne has faced challenges in regaining their former dominance. However, the club has consistently competed in Ligue 1 and participated in European competitions. With a new generation of talented players, they continue to strive for success.
Conclusion
AS Saint-Etienne’s history, achievements, and passionate fanbase solidify its status as a legendary football club. From its golden era to the present, AS Saint-Etienne has left an indelible mark on French football and continues to inspire both players and fans alike.
