Morocco’s Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal agrees Rennes contract extension

Moroccan international Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal has reached an agreement with Stade Rennais to extend his contract, Africasoccer can report.

The young defender is expected to commit his long-term future to the Ligue 1 club following successful negotiations between the two parties.

Ait Boudlal has made four appearances for Rennes this season, accumulating 280 minutes on the pitch. Despite his limited playing time, the club continues to view him as part of its long-term plans.

Contract agreement despite difficult start

The reported agreement comes after a challenging start to the season for the Moroccan defender, who has faced public criticism from head coach Franck Haise over his performances.

Rennes sporting director Loïc Désiré has also expressed concerns about the player’s inconsistent form.

However, the club’s decision to reach an agreement over an extension points to its continued plans for the young centre-back.

Ait Boudlal is currently under contract with Rennes until June 2028, providing the French side with a foundation as the terms of the new deal are finalised.

From Mohammed VI Academy to Rennes

A product of Morocco’s Mohammed VI Football Academy, Ait Boudlal completed his move to Stade Rennais in July 2024, signing a four-year contract.

In February 2025, Rennes sent him on loan to Ligue 2 side Amiens SC for the remainder of the 2024–25 campaign to help him adapt to European football.

He subsequently returned to Rennes and rejoined the first-team setup.

With an extension reportedly agreed, Ait Boudlal will look to overcome his difficult start to the current campaign and establish himself as a regular option in Rennes’ defence.