Earlier this summer, QPR hired Julien Stephan as their new manager, and the Frenchman has already demonstrated one noteworthy quality.
Marti Cifuentes, who was first put on gardening leave prior to his formal resignation earlier this week, inflicted a blow to QPR. Leicester City, a Championship foe, is now coached by the Spaniard.
But compared to the Foxes, the R’s moved on far more quickly. Julien Stephan was appointed in June after many bosses were connected to the position, and he has since quickly begun working on the 2025–2026 campaign preparations.
Perhaps Stephan’s most alluring quality is his track record of turning inexperienced players into first-team stars, though his pedigree and tactical adaptability will also have played a significant role in the Hoops’ decision to hire him.
Although it is not entirely up to Stephan, QPR will be hoping the 44-year-old can repeat his prior success. The leadership must supply him with these gifted additions, and the young department must identify and nurture academy potential.
Before whom did Julien Stephan develop?
Prior to his foray into senior management, Stephan had a variety of positions as a youth coach. He led the Stade Rennais U19s and B-team before taking over as their first-team manager twice.
Here, the QPR manager had great success as young players blossomed and helped the team win the Coupe de France and play in the Champions League.
Before moving to Leeds United, Stephan worked there alongside Raphinha, who is currently a Barcelona star. Additionally, during his second stay, PSG sensation Desire Doue made his debut with the Stade Rennais first squad.
However, Stephan’s crown gem is Eduardo Camavinga. Even if he might not be as good as Raphinha or Doue to win the Ballon d’Or, the Real Madrid midfielder was one of his nation’s best young players at the time after playing in the academy under Stephan and breaking into the first squad under the current R’s manager.
Ismaila Sarr, a winger for Crystal Palace, and Belgian internationals Jeremy Doku and Arthur Theate are among the other players Stephan trained at an early age. In the Stade Rennais academy, he also trained Ousmane Dembele. However, the PSG player made his breakthrough and went on without any problems before Stephan was given the responsibility of managing the first team.
Under Stephan, who may become a QPR star?
This is not to imply that these Hoops prospects are as good as some of the players listed earlier when they were first emerging. But under Stephan, these are high-ceilinged individuals who have the potential to flourish and achieve greater things.
Rayan Kolli, a forward who is perhaps the most intriguing QPR prospect, is begging to be given more opportunities to establish himself as a true first-team star. He has drawn attention as a winger and a striker. Last season, he averaged a goal contribution every 117 minutes while recording five goals and three assists.
Kieran Morgan, a 19-year-old midfielder who joined from Spurs last summer and got into the starting lineup, will be looking for substantial playing time under Stephan. Another midfield player to watch is Harvey Vale, who was signed in the winter and is now fit.
Although injuries marred Karamoko Dembele’s rookie season, Stephan will be excited to work with the 22-year-old who has long been predicted to have a bright future. Despite becoming a year older at 23, Kwame Poku is a statement arrival for QPR and has the potential to grow into a very important asset.
With Stephan’s assistance, Liam Morrison will be keen to establish himself as a crucial player farther back.
Emmerson Sutton may become a senior role candidate in the upcoming seasons as he advances through the academy ranks.
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