The next shock expected of the season for Rennes fans will take place on the fifth day at the Beaujoire in mid-September. This confrontation is particularly expected due to the return of Valentin Rongier, an iconic player for FC Nantes, whose passage to Rennes is a significant event. Rongier, now captain of Rennes, is aware of the importance of this game and the emotion it arouses, while affirming his willingness to focus on his current role and win this first derbys in the Rensais colours. He recalls that sports rivalry must remain a good child and that at no time does he wish to disrespect the Rennes institution or its supporters.

Valentin Rongier, who arrived at the Nantes training centre at the age of 7, went through all stages of the club, before joining OM in 2019. His comments on Rennes, calling the enemy club, aroused negative reactions from Rennes supporters. However, Rongier has always insisted that these statements are the result of a different context and that he does not regret his choice to join Rennes. He is now determined to prove his value on the ground and to help Rennes regain its place. His choice to join Rennes is seen as a personal and sporting bet, which he takes full responsibility for.

His investment in the field is already palpable, especially during the first three days, where he proved indispensable to balance the game and facilitate transitions. The fact that he now wears the captain’s armband demonstrates the confidence that the Rennes leadership and supporters give him. Despite the potentially hostile reactions on the part of the Nantes supporters, Rongier remained focused on his work and hoped that reasonableness would prevail. A victory in this derby would be seen as a definitive recognition by the people of Rennes, symbolizing the ability of football to transcend rivalries.