World Cup winner Steven Nzonzi returns to France after sealing Dunkerque move

Former France midfielder Steven Nzonzi has signed for Ligue 2 side Dunkerque after leaving English club Stoke City as a free agent.

The 37-year-old, who was part of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning squad, joins the northern French club following a season in which he made 31 appearances for Stoke, scoring once.

Dunkerque confirmed the arrival of the experienced midfielder as they look to strengthen their squad in their bid to challenge for promotion to Ligue 1.

Veteran midfielder adds experience

Nzonzi arrives at Dunkerque as the 11th club of his professional career and is expected to bring leadership to one of the youngest squads in the French second division, which has an average age of 24.

The former France international won 20 caps for his country and boasts a wealth of experience gained in France, England, Spain and Turkey.

Despite his age, Nzonzi remained an important figure for Stoke during the 2025-26 campaign, featuring regularly and making 17 starts in all competitions.

Return to familiar surroundings

The move also marks a return to French football for Nzonzi, who was born in Colombes, near Paris.

The midfielder previously represented Amiens in Ligue 2 during the 2008-09 season before going on to play for clubs including Blackburn Rovers, Stoke City, Sevilla, Roma and Rennes.

His most recent spell in France came with Rennes, where he spent the 2020-21 campaign.

Dunkerque eye promotion challenge

Dunkerque hope Nzonzi’s arrival will boost their ambitions of reaching Ligue 1 after narrowly missing out on promotion in recent seasons.

The club finished fourth in the French second division two years ago and will look to the former World Cup winner to add experience and stability as they target a place among the elite of French football.