Rennes Prepare for New Era Under Habib Beye
Rennes, currently occupying the 16th spot in Ligue 1, will host Strasbourg at Roazhon Park this Sunday at 5:15 pm CET. The club has recently undergone a significant change in management, parting ways with Argentine head coach Jorge Sampaoli and appointing former Newcastle United right-back Habib Beye as the new manager. This match will mark Beye’s debut as a manager in the French top-flight, adding a layer of anticipation and significance to the fixture. For Strasbourg, the match will see Liam Rosenior taking charge, making it a duel of managerial newcomers. The appointment of Beye comes at a crucial time for Rennes, who will be looking to stabilize their position in the league and potentially push for better results under their new leadership.
Key Winter Signings Expected to Debut
L’Equipe has reported that several winter signings are expected to make their Rennes debut in this match. One of the most notable is Lilian Brassier, who was loaned from Brest and has previously spent the first half of the Ligue 1 season at Marseille. Brassier is poised to start as a left-sided centre-back in a back three, alongside Leo Ostigard and Christopher Wooh. This defensive lineup could provide the stability and experience needed to shore up Rennes’ defense, which has been a concern this season. However, the team will be without the services of midfielder Seko Fofana, who is nursing a muscle injury. His absence will likely be felt, but it opens opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact.
Midfield Anchors Ready for the Challenge
The midfield will be anchored by Jordan James and Azor Matusiwa, both of whom bring international experience to the lineup. Jordan James, a Wales international, has been a consistent performer and will be crucial in maintaining possession and providing defensive support. Azor Matusiwa, the Dutch midfielder, will add creativity and pace to the midfield, helping to link up play and create scoring opportunities. Their combined efforts will be vital in controlling the tempo of the game and ensuring that Rennes can dictate play from the center of the park. With Fofana out, the pair will have to shoulder additional responsibilities, and their performances will be closely watched by the new manager and the home fans.
Kyogo Furuhashi Set for Ligue 1 Debut
The spotlight will also be on former Celtic FC striker Kyogo Furuhashi, who is set to make his first start at Roazhon Park. The Japanese international, known for his clinical finishing and dynamic presence on the left channel, is expected to lead the line and bring a fresh perspective to Rennes’ attack. Furuhashi’s debut is highly anticipated, not only because of his proven track record but also because he represents a new wave of talent that the club hopes will rejuvenate their forward line. Alongside him, France U21 international Arnaud Kalimuendo will start up front, adding further depth and versatility to the attack. The combination of Furuhashi’s experience and Kalimuendo’s youth promises an exciting dynamic for Rennes supporters.
Likely Lineup for the Match
Rennes’ likely XI for the match against Strasbourg will feature Brice Samba in goal, with the back three consisting of Christopher Wooh, Leo Ostigard, and Lilian Brassier. In the midfield, Lorenz Assignon and Adrien Truffert will provide the wings, while Jordan James and Azor Matusiwa will anchor the center. The attack will be spearheaded by Ludovic Blas and Arnaud Kalimuendo, with Kyogo Furuhashi starting on the left. This lineup balances experience and new talent, reflecting the club’s efforts to rebuild and find a winning formula under Beye’s leadership. The players will be keen to impress their new manager and demonstrate their capabilities on the pitch.
High Stakes for Both Teams
The match is set to be a crucial one for both Rennes and Strasbourg. For Rennes, it represents a fresh start under Habib Beye, who will be looking to improve the team’s league position and instill a sense of confidence and unity. The challenge for Beye will be to integrate new players seamlessly and find the right balance in the team’s tactics. For Strasbourg, a strong performance could lift their spirits and potentially push them up the table. Both teams will be motivated to secure a positive result, and the atmosphere at Roazhon Park is expected to be electric as fans eagerly anticipate what the new era holds. The debut of key players and the managerial debut of Beye will add an extra dimension of excitement to the game, making it a must-watch event for Ligue 1 enthusiasts.
