RC Lens poised to appoint Dino Toppmoller as Pierre Sage’s successor
The French club is preparing to confirm the appointment of Dino Toppmoller, who replaces Pierre Sage amid his anticipated move to Crystal Palace.
RC Lens are expected to formally announce Dino Toppmoller as their new manager on Monday, according to a report from L’Équipe. The appointment is set to be finalised on a two-year contract, marking a significant transition for the Ligue 1 side as they look to build on recent successes.
The leadership change follows the anticipated departure of Pierre Sage, who is expected to move to Crystal Palace. Sage’s potential transfer to the English club is pending official confirmation, though it is widely anticipated to be formalised shortly. Crystal Palace are currently seeking a new head coach following the exit of Oliver Glasner.
Sage leaves RC Lens with a strong record of achievement. Under his direction, the club secured a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and claimed the Coupe de France title at the end of May. Despite these accomplishments, Sage sowed seeds of uncertainty regarding his future with the club, leading to the current managerial reshuffle.
Toppmoller brings recent experience from the Bundesliga, having managed Eintracht Frankfurt. He joined the German club in 2023 and departed in January 2026. His appointment represents a strategic move for Lens to maintain competitive stability in French football following a highly productive period under Sage.
The upcoming announcement by RC Lens will solidify the club’s direction for the coming seasons. While Sage’s move to Selhurst Park awaits final bureaucratic steps, Toppmoller’s arrival signals a clear intent to continue the club’s upward trajectory in domestic competitions.
