The arrival of Brice Samba (30 years old) in Rennes, from Lens, brings back past tensions with Steve Mandanda (39 years old).
According to Provencetheir relationship, which dates back to their time together in Marseille (2013-2017), has never been truly harmonious. Mandanda, then the indisputable holder, had tried to supervise Samba, a promising young understudy. But the latter’s ambitions would have quickly created friction.
An old and still lively rivalry
“Steve had started to take him under his wing, seeing in him a young talent to train. But he stopped when he learned that Brice said he wanted to take his place,” says a relative of Mandanda to Provence. This conflict would have left its mark, and their collaboration in Rennes raises questions. “The relationship is going to be complicated,” predicts someone close to the 2018 world champion, adding that Samba does not fear facing his elder brother.
Despite his probable downgrade with the arrival of Samba, Mandanda would not plan to leave this winter. It remains to be seen how the two goalkeepers, marked by an old rivalry, will manage to coexist in the same locker room. For Rennes, managing this situation could prove crucial for the rest of the season.
