Maxime Bernauer’s Saint-Étienne role shifts after seven starts

Maxime Bernauer has become an important tactical piece for Saint-Étienne, but not in the central-defensive role expected when he joined. Coach Ian Cathro has used the summer recruit across the left side and midfield, turning his versatility into part of the team’s structure rather than a secondary option.

Bernauer has started all seven of Saint-Étienne’s Ligue 2 matches and has averaged about 88 minutes per appearance. He returned to midfield against Metz, while some of his other outings have begun at left-back. Even from the flank, his work changes once Saint-Étienne has possession: he moves inside to add an extra player in the middle and help the team alter its shape without a substitution.

The numbers support that emphasis on build-up play. Bernauer ranks in the 100th percentile for passes received and completed, the 98th for forward passes and the 87th for progressive passes. Cathro is therefore making use of the former Dinamo Zagreb player’s distribution as much as his defensive qualities.

That approach has also helped Saint-Étienne avoid signing another left-back during the transfer window. Bernauer remains an option in central defence, but his opening seven starts show how his role is changing. Rather than simply providing cover in several positions, he is increasingly being used to connect different lines and systems during matches.