Nantes turn to familiar face Saidou Sow ahead of Ligue 2 opener

FC Nantes have confirmed the return of Saidou Sow, with the Guinea international joining from RC Strasbourg on loan with an option for the French club to make the move permanent.

The central defender is heading back to the Canaris after previously spending the second half of the 2024/25 season with the club. Although Sow settled successfully during that initial spell, his time in Nantes was cut short by a serious injury that kept him out of action.

His return gives FC Nantes an experienced option in central defence as they prepare for the new Ligue 2 campaign. The club has welcomed back a player who is highly regarded internally for his professionalism and attitude, while also valuing the defensive qualities he can bring to the squad.

Sow, who has earned around 30 caps for Guinea, revived his career with Clermont Foot after recovering from his injury. He will now return to the banks of the Erdre, where FC Nantes hope he can establish himself on a longer-term basis.

The defender began his professional career with AS Saint-Etienne, having come through the club’s system. His move to RC Strasbourg followed before his first spell with FC Nantes, and the latest agreement offers him another opportunity to secure a regular role in the Nantes defence.

FC Nantes are counting on Sow’s experience and defensive ability to provide greater stability at the back as they begin their Ligue 2 campaign. His previous adaptation to the club, despite the setback caused by injury, was an important factor in the decision to bring him back.

The player’s estimated market value is €2.5m, according to Transfermarkt. That figure provides an indication of the potential scale of the option to buy included in the agreement with RC Strasbourg, although the terms of the clause have not been disclosed.

FC Nantes will soon begin their French Ligue 2 schedule against Red Star. The fixture will provide Sow with the possibility of making his return to competitive action for the Canaris, although no further details about his availability have been given.

The betting company 1xbet lists FC Nantes as the favourites for the match, with odds of 2.80 for a home victory. A draw is priced at 3.50, while a Red Star win is listed at 4.40.