The arrival of Brice Samba at Stade Rennais could once again hasten the end of Steve Mandanda's adventure under the leadership of Jorge Sampaoli. Already pushed towards leaving OM by the Argentinian coach, the almost 40-year-old goalkeeper finds himself facing uncertainties about his future, between understudy, early retirement and possible departure.
Jorge Sampaoli is not his first outburst regarding Steve Mandanda. Already at the origin of his departure fromMarseille Olympicthe Argentine coach once again seems to be shaking up the future of the goalkeeper at Stade Rennais. The imminent arrival of Brice Samba in Rennesorchestrated with the approval of Sampaoli, place Mandanda in a delicate situation at the dawn of his 40th birthday. Between sporting uncertainties and the possibility of early retirement, the former Blues goalkeeper is faced with a new ordeal.
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Brice Samba in Rennes: what future for Steve Mandanda?
The imminent transfer of Brice Samba to Stade Rennais for 15 million euros (excluding bonus) and a contract until 2029 reshuffles the cards for Steve Mandanda. Almost 40 years old, the former French international, whose contract ends next June, sees his future at the club uncertain. Tired by a trying season where he conceded 20 goals in 15 games for 5 clean sheets, Mandanda could consider early retirement from sport. However, his strong relationship with coach Jorge Sampaoli, based on a considerate agreement until the end of the season, still leaves the door open for discussions.
Despite these uncertainties, Steve Mandanda maintains a positive image, both within Stade Rennais and with the Blues, where he is respected for his managerial role during major competitions. The Rennes management, for their part, is banking on Brice Samba as a long-term starter and remains determined to strengthen the team in other sectors, particularly in the middle and in defense. In this context, Rennes also plans to free up liquidity, in particular by considering the departure of Christopher Wooh before the end of the transfer window.
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