Congolese forward Meschack Elia’s future at Nantes in doubt as loan spell ends in disappointment

Meschack Elia’s time at FC Nantes is nearing its conclusion, with the Congolese forward set to return to his parent club, Young Boys Bern, following a disappointing loan spell.

Elia, who joined the Ligue 1 side in January, has failed to make a significant impact, leaving his future uncertain as he is expected to depart for a new challenge, potentially in Turkey.

The 27-year-old striker arrived at Nantes with high hopes of bolstering their attacking options. However, despite his arrival as a reinforcement in the winter window, Elia’s performance has not been up to expectations.

He managed just one goal in eight appearances, a return that has left head coach Antoine Kombouaré unimpressed. The manager, known for his no-nonsense approach and decisive tactics, has opted not to select Elia for two recent Ligue 1 fixtures, signaling the end of his brief spell with the French club.

Kombouaré Moves On Quickly, No Place for Elia

Elia’s lack of impact has led to his swift exclusion from Kombouaré’s plans. The striker, who was brought in with a €3 million purchase option attached to his loan, has struggled to make a lasting impression in Nantes.

His solitary goal for the club came in a period where the team needed more consistency and a reliable finish in front of goal, which Elia failed to provide.

Despite the hopes placed on him upon his arrival, Elia’s struggles in the French top flight have left him on the fringes. With only a handful of appearances to show for his time in Nantes, the club has made it clear that they have no intention of activating the purchase option in his loan agreement.

A New Target for Nantes as Elia’s Exit Looms

Nantes, however, have already begun to look ahead, identifying a replacement for Elia in the form of Yassine Benhattab. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, currently on loan at Aubagne, has impressed during his stint in France’s National division.

Recently named the league’s best player, Benhattab has caught the attention of Nantes decision-makers, who see him as a potential solution to the attacking void left by Elia’s exit.

Having joined Nantes in 2024, Benhattab is expected to return to La Jonelière next season, where he will assume a similar role to that of Elia, albeit without additional cost to the club.

This move reflects Nantes’ strategy of finding a cost-effective replacement while maintaining continuity in their squad-building approach.

Turkey a Likely Destination for Elia

As for Elia, his future seems set to take him elsewhere, with a potential move to Turkey looking increasingly likely.

The Congolese international, who is still contracted to Young Boys until 2026, has attracted interest from two Turkish clubs: Eyüpspor and Kayserispor.

Both teams are reportedly keen to sign the striker, who is valued at €5 million by Transfermarkt.

Elia, whose time in Switzerland is unlikely to be prolonged, is said to be open to the prospect of a move to the Turkish Süper Lig.

With a transfer fee deemed acceptable by his current club, Elia could soon embark on a new chapter in his career, offering him a fresh challenge in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

Elia’s time at Nantes is effectively over, his brief and underwhelming spell making way for a new opportunity.

Whether in Turkey or another European league, the striker is now preparing for the next stage of his professional journey, leaving behind what was a largely forgettable period in France.