The 2025/26 Ligue 1 campaign is here, and omo, it’s already looking like one for the history books. From legends making comebacks to fresh talents ready to shake things up, the French league is about to serve pure vibes. According to reports from the GFFN 2025/26 Guide, here are five new names you need to keep an eye on this season.
Paul Pogba – AS Monaco
The biggest headline of the summer? Paul Pogba to Monaco! The 32-year-old World Cup winner returns to football after nearly two years out on a doping ban. Several clubs allegedly chased his signature, but Pogba chose Monaco – a move close to home to relaunch his career.
At his best, Pogba is a magician: long passes like GPS navigation, dribbles that make defenders look lost, and rockets from distance. Omo, when he’s in the mood, you can pay gate fee just to watch him.
But let’s calm down small – the midfielder is still training individually and is only expected back in October. Monaco fans will need patience, but if his body holds up, Ligue 1 might just see Pogba in beast mode again.
Igor Paixão – Olympique de Marseille
Marseille broke the bank (over €30m) for Igor Paixão, the Brazilian winger who was crowned Dutch Footballer of the Year. The 25-year-old joins from Feyenoord after bagging 18 goals and 14 assists last season.
This guy is pure Joga Bonito vibes – quick feet, fearless dribbles, and the kind of skill that leaves defenders confused. Omo, defenders go dey see shege! If Paixão settles fast, he could be the missing puzzle piece Roberto De Zerbi needs to make OM title challengers.
Olivier Giroud – Lille OSC
Another blockbuster return! Olivier Giroud is back in Ligue 1 for the first time in 13 years, signing for Lille on a free from LAFC. The 38-year-old World Cup winner last graced Ligue 1 with Montpellier, where his goals helped them secure their first-ever league title.
Some dey ask: at 38, does he still have the fire? But remember, Giroud has never been about raw speed – it’s his intelligence, hold-up play, and those iconic flicks. Omo, if na half-chance, he go still bury am. Lille just gained experience plus a reliable finisher to balance their young squad.
Illia Zabarnyi – Paris Saint-Germain
From Bournemouth to PSG, Illia Zabarnyi (22) cost the Ligue 1 champions around €63m, and reports claim he’s seen as the long-term replacement for Marquinhos. The Ukrainian centre-back has leadership qualities beyond his age, and he was already commanding Bournemouth’s backline in the Premier League.
He’s tall, composed, and loves building from the back – omo, no rash tackles, just smart defending. With Luis Enrique’s system, Zabarnyi might just grow into one of Europe’s finest defenders. PSG fans should dey excited.
Kendry Páez – RC Strasbourg Alsace
Only 18 years old, but already making headlines, Kendry Páez joins Strasbourg on loan from Chelsea. The Ecuadorian midfielder is no stranger to the spotlight – youngest player to score in a World Cup qualifier and already capped 18 times for his country.
At club level, he’s already played 70 games for Independiente del Valle and won the Copa Sudamericana. Omo, no be small pikin again. Strasbourg will bank on his vision and creativity to unlock stubborn defences. If he adapts quickly to Ligue 1’s physicality, Páez could be the breakout star of the season.
Final Take
From Pogba’s redemption story to Páez’s youthful fire, Ligue 1 2025/26 is stacked with exciting narratives. Omo, this season go too hot – fans should get ready for serious drama, goals, and classic moments.
