A major change made by Sampaoli in Bordeaux!

Stade Rennais begins its Coupe de France campaign this Sunday with a trip to Bordeaux, a club relegated to National 2. This first confrontation of the season in the competition sees the Bretons starting favorites, but they will have to deal with the absence of their scorer Amine Gouiriinjured against Angers last week. “Amine is recovering. I don't think he will be available on Sunday. We hope he will be there against Nice (January 3)”declared Jorge Sampaoli at a press conference.

A change of goalkeeper considered

Beyond Gouiri's injury, the Argentinian technician could carry out a rotation in the Rennes goals. “It’s a possibility (to change goalkeeper). The cup allows us to give minutes to the second goalkeeper”he said, suggesting a potential tenure of Gauthier Gallon in place of Steve Mandanda. This meeting against a lower division opponent represents an opportunity for Sampaoli to breathe new life into certain executives and to involve less used elements.

A delicate entry

Despite Rennes' favorite status, this opening match in the Coupe de France does not promise to be a simple formality. Bordeaux, demoted from Ligue 2 last season, remain a formidable team at home and will make the Coupe de France a potential priority this season. The Girondins will seek to create the feat against the Breton club. Rennes will therefore have to remain vigilant and not underestimate their opponent to get their Cup campaign off to a good start.

Crucial workforce management

Beyond this match, Jorge Sampaoli must manage his workforce intelligently during this busy period. With the return of the Coupe de France and the trip to Nice in Ligue 1, rotations will be essential to preserve the physical freshness and involvement of all players. Careful management of the forces present will be the key to approaching this crucial phase in the best conditions.