It’s his big return to Ligue 1. A little more than two years after his departure from OM, Jorge Sampaoli, 64, officially joined Rennes on Monday to replace Julien Stéphan. The Argentine coach, whose team is in 13th place in L 1 just above the relegation zone, was presented to the press on Tuesday.
“I accepted because Stade Rennais is a big club,” explained the South American technician. It is a constructive project in a country that I know and that I love (…) The first objective will be to get to know the team, so that it is better organized, that we develop a collective functioning so that we finds an identity while strengthening the gaming culture. The team also needs to regain confidence. »
Sunday, Sampaoli was present in the Rennes stands to see the poor performance of his future players against Toulouse (0-2). Which obviously didn’t spoil his motivation. “I’m enthusiastic to be here, it’s a great challenge to take on,” he continued. We analyzed the team, it’s not just Sunday’s game, we saw a lot of games. We have a pretty clear idea of the team for the next matches. We will have time to develop what football I have for the future. »
Reunion with Mandanda
The former Copa America winner with Chile in 2025 had not coached since his departure in September 2023 from Brazilian club Flamengo. “I am an admirer of the French Championship,” he said. After my time in Marseille, I continued to watch, I really like the teams here, the transitions. Ligue 1 is growing gradually. The countries that best promote their young people are France and Brazil. »
After leading OM to second place in L 1 and to the semi-final of the Europa Conference League, Sampaoli decided to leave Canebière in July 2022 due to deep disagreement over summer recruitment. In Brittany, he will meet up with Steve Mandanda, promoted to captain by Julien Stéphan. His collaboration with the 2018 world champion had not always been linear in Marseille (20 matches in all competitions), “El Pelado”, often preferring the Spaniard Pau Lopez considered more reliable with his feet.
“I have a very good relationship with Steve, I like him a lot,” Sampaoli said. We have always had a very direct relationship. I am happy to have him here again and he will help us get out of this situation. »
