Wilitty Younoussa joins FC Nantes on free transfer

FC Nantes have completed the signing of Cameroonian midfielder Wilitty Younoussa, making him the club’s first midfield addition of the summer transfer window after his departure from Rodez AF.

The 24-year-old Cameroon international arrives on a free transfer and has signed a two-year contract with the French club. The agreement also includes an option for an additional year, giving Nantes the possibility of extending his stay beyond the initial deal.

Younoussa’s arrival marks the latest step in Nantes’ preparations for the new season as the club continues to strengthen its squad under head coach Michel Der Zakarian.

The midfielder joins after spending four seasons with Rodez, where he established himself as a regular presence in the team. During the most recent campaign, he made 25 appearances and played an important role in the club’s efforts throughout the season.

One of his most memorable contributions came during the play-offs when he scored the winning goal in Rodez’s 3-2 victory over Red Star, a moment that further highlighted his value to the side before his departure.

Before moving to Rodez in 2022, Younoussa built significant experience in Ligue 2 with Dijon. Between 2020 and 2022, he featured regularly for the club, adding to a growing list of appearances in France’s second tier.

Across his spells with Dijon and Rodez, the Cameroonian midfielder accumulated 141 Ligue 2 appearances, underlining the experience he brings to Nantes despite still being only 24 years old.

The club sees Younoussa primarily as a defensive midfielder, a role that involves protecting the back line, recovering possession and helping launch attacking moves from deeper areas of the pitch.

Nantes believe his energy and ability to contribute in both defensive and transitional phases of play will strengthen the team’s midfield options.

Internationally, Younoussa has earned two caps for Cameroon, adding senior national team experience to his profile.

His arrival comes during a busy period for Nantes. Alongside the signing of the Cameroonian, the club has also secured contract extensions for Frédéric Guilbert, Alexis Mirbach and Sekou Doucouré, while several academy players have signed their first professional contracts.

Younoussa will wear the number 23 shirt at Nantes as he begins a new chapter in his career. After years of experience in Ligue 2, the midfielder now has the opportunity to establish himself with the Canaries and contribute to the club’s ambitions in the seasons ahead.