Stade Rennais is undergoing a significant change in strength with the departure of two key players, Bertug Yildirim and Dogan Alemdar, to Istanbul’s Turkish club Basaksehir. These starts, valued at about 5 million euros, mark a new stage for the footballers who joined the Breton club in 2021 and 2023 respectively. At the same time, Steve Mandanda, an experienced goaltender, announced his retirement at the age of 40, ending a rich and distinguished career. After a visit to Stade Rennais in 2022, where he played 102 games and won several titles, he withdrew after refusing the offers of several other French clubs.

Rennes’ football team starts the season with a mixed start, accumulating four points in three games despite a match against Olympique de Marseille that had raised hope. Individual mistakes and a lack of offensive dynamism have hampered the team’s ambitions. The current strength, although considered sufficient to aim for a Top 6 in League 1, lacks players capable of making the difference and percussion. The defence, reinforced by new players, remains strong, but the team needs to improve its offensive production to achieve its goals.

Rennes’ calendar will be busy with important meetings in September, notably against Lyon, Lens and Nantes. These games offer the opportunity to redeem themselves after a disappointing start to the season and confirm the club’s status in the league. The team’s offensive performance, with only two goals in three games, is a cause for concern. Despite the challenges, the club relies on its staff and its potential to surprise and rise to the top in France. Steve Mandanda’s end of career marks an important page in the history of French football, highlighting his talent and impact on sport.