Stade Rennais is about to welcome two new recruits, Quentin Merlin and Valentin Rongier, after several departures in recent weeks. This transfer, estimated at about 18.5 million euros excluding bonuses, comes from the Olympique de Marseille, where the two players were trained at FC Nantes. The information was revealed by L’Equipe and Le Parisien, and provoked a strong reaction from Roazhon Celtic Kop, the main group of Rennes supporters.
Following the announcement of Valentin Rongier’s imminent arrival, Roazhon Celtic Kop issued a statement expressing his disagreement and discontent. The group of supporters underlines the “displayed aversion” of Rongier to Stade Rennais and considers this recruitment as an “affront” if it materializes. They believe that Rongier has no legitimacy to wear the colors of the club.
The reaction of Roazhon Celtic Kop illustrates the strong involvement of supporters in club life and their sensitivity to recruitment decisions. This press release highlights the passion and commitment of supporters to the identity of Stade Rennais, and the frustration they can feel in the face of leadership choices they consider inappropriate. The case is therefore far from over and could fuel a passionate debate among the Rennes supporters community.
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