 The club's relegation back to Ligue 2 caused speculation regarding Matuidi's future with the club.Despite being linked with a hosts of Ligue 1 clubs, notably Bordeaux, Lille and Monaco, on 12 July 2007, it was confirmed by the media that Matuidi had agreed to join Saint-Étienne after agreeing to a four-year deal with the club.Upon his arrival, Matuidi was given the number 12 shirt and was inserted into the starting XI, where he established midfield partnerships with Loïc Perrin and Christophe Landrin.