Atlético To Manage Sports Department Of Ligue 2 Side Lens

Atlético Madrid "is going forward with its int'l expansion plan" and this "explains the acquisition of a 35% stake in Ligue 2 side Lens," according to F.J. Díaz of AS. Atlético's intention "is clear: bring Lens to Ligue 1 and make it one of the strongest clubs in France." To do so, Atlético "will contribute its experience in every sports area: from hiring top coaches and directors to players that can help Lens earn promotion." Lens has a sports training center of 22 hectares that "is one of the best in France, a modern stadium with a capacity of nearly 40,000 and one of the best academies in the country." The team's youth football "is very respected in France and many important players have come from there" (AS, 6/8).