Five African talents set to make their mark in Ligue 2 this season

The 2026/27 Ligue 2 campaign could prove decisive for five young African players hoping to establish themselves, attract interest from Ligue 1 clubs and take the next step in their careers.

With the French second tier expected to be highly competitive, Africafoot has identified players at FC Nantes, AS Saint-Etienne, Stade de Reims, Pau FC and Rodez AF who could use the season as a springboard.

Tylel Tati – FC Nantes

At 18, Tylel Tati already has valuable first-team experience. The Senegalese-born defender came through the academy at FC Nantes and gradually became an important member of the Canaris’ defence last season.

Nantes’ relegation to Ligue 2 has changed the circumstances around the player, but the campaign could offer Tati an opportunity rather than represent a setback. With the club aiming to return quickly to the top flight, he is likely to be given greater responsibility and the chance to develop his leadership.

His composure, maturity and ability to perform under pressure will be closely monitored. While promotion will be Nantes’ priority, the season could allow Tati to confirm his potential at the highest level. His market value is currently estimated at 25 million euros, underlining the expectations surrounding him.

Kevin Pedro – AS Saint-Etienne

The 2026/27 season could be a breakthrough campaign for Kevin Pedro. The 20-year-old Democratic Republic of the Congo defender made appearances for AS Saint-Etienne last season and showed he has the qualities required to succeed in a demanding environment.

Pedro is a modern right-back. His explosiveness, ability to repeat high-intensity efforts and versatility could make him an important option on the right side of the Saint-Etienne team.

The challenge now will be to develop greater consistency. Saint-Etienne’s status and their clear ambition to return to Ligue 1 will bring added pressure, while Pedro’s attacking contribution will be particularly significant. His ability to advance into the final third, create overloads and pose a threat in the last 30 metres could become a major asset.

Pedro’s market value is estimated at seven million euros and could rise quickly if he establishes himself as a regular and indispensable starter.

Ange Martial Tia – Stade de Reims

Ange Martial Tia is among the most technically gifted players in the group. The 19-year-old Malian attacking midfielder has already caught the eye at Stade de Reims and will begin this season with the task of confirming his promise.

Tia was developed by Afrique Football Elite and stands out for his quickness, technical quality and ability to beat opponents in tight areas. In a Ligue 2 competition where physical battles and intensity can restrict available space, his close control and skill could prove particularly valuable.

His main area for improvement is physical development. To move to the next level, Tia will need to cope better with contact and maintain his influence throughout matches.

Stade de Reims’ strong promotion ambitions should provide him with an ideal environment in which to progress. A full season could bring interest from Ligue 1 sides and potentially clubs abroad. Tia’s current market value is estimated at seven million euros.

Joseph Kalulu – Pau FC

Joseph Kalulu could emerge as one of the season’s surprises at Pau FC. The 21-year-old Democratic Republic of the Congo left-back has a profile that is highly valued in modern football: he is defensively strong, athletic and capable of making a difference from the flank.

Kalulu offers more than defensive security. His power and ability to beat his direct opponent allow him to contribute actively in attack, and his work on the left could be even more visible at Pau.

A full-back who combines physical strength, a high work rate and attacking ability is in demand, meaning Kalulu’s performances could attract considerable attention. His market value is estimated at two million euros, leaving room for further growth.

If his attacking influence continues to develop, he could soon become one of the most closely watched full-backs in Ligue 2. Several teams have taken an interest in him in recent weeks, as revealed exclusively by Africafoot.

Jordan Mendes – Rodez AF

Jordan Mendes was one of the defining players in a highly successful season for Rodez AF. The 22-year-old Cape Verdean midfielder established himself as the side’s regulator.

Playing in front of the defence, Mendes demonstrated his ability to organise possession, control the tempo and provide collective balance. The role requires tactical intelligence and personality, particularly when a player must take responsibility in important moments.

His consistency earned him a place among the nominees for the Young Player of the Season award. That recognition reflected his progress, while Africafoot’s exclusive sources say he is being monitored by Egyptian club Al Ahly.

The new campaign will give Mendes the chance to show he can operate at a higher level. His ability to play under pressure, break lines with his passing and impose the rhythm of matches will be crucial. He could also become an important player for the Cape Verde national team.

Mendes is valued at two million euros and still has significant scope for development. Another outstanding season could increase his value and accelerate a move to a more ambitious club.

The five players have different strengths, but the 2026/27 season could be a turning point for all of them. Tati must prove his maturity despite his age; Pedro and Kalulu will aim to secure established roles on their respective flanks; Tia must add greater physical impact; and Mendes will look to confirm his reputation as a midfield organiser.

For these young African players, Ligue 2 is more than a transitional competition. It offers a platform to gain experience, take on responsibility and potentially earn a route into Ligue 1 or Europe’s highest level.