All roads lead to Lens: Ivanović has chosen perfectly

Croatian striker Franjo Ivanović has arrived at French club RC Lens on a one-year loan from Benfica, with an option to buy for €2.5 million. Lens marked his arrival with a video in the style of The Simpsons, playfully referencing their pursuit of the player over competitors like Lazio.

Ivanović chose Lens over a move to Italian club Lazio, despite interest from Gennaro Gattuso. The decision was reportedly influenced by Lens's project and coach Dino Toppmöller's vision. This move comes after a highly successful season for Lens, who finished second in Ligue 1 and won the French Cup, their most successful period since the 1997/1998 league title win.

However, the club is undergoing significant changes. Manager Pierre Sage has departed for Crystal Palace, replaced by German coach Dino Toppmöller, formerly an assistant to Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern Munich and Leipzig. Several key players have also left, including Malanga Sarra, Adrien Thomasson, Mamadou Sangare, and crucially, Wesley Said, whom Ivanović is expected to succeed in the attacking lineup.

There is considerable excitement surrounding Ivanović's signing. Lens's sporting director, Jean-Louis Leca, stated that Ivanović was a top priority for the scouting department and coaching staff. Fans have also shown strong support, with Ivanović winning a poll for the most exciting summer acquisition with 55.05% of the vote, ahead of other new signings.

“

absolute priority of the scouting service, which has been following him for a long time, as well as the professional staff.