Badredine Bouanani is expected to return to the starting line-up for OGC Nice’s pivotal clash against Stade Rennais on Saturday evening, in what marks a significant step forward for the young Algerian forward following a period of perseverance and quiet determination
The 20-year-old is in line to feature from the ouset at Roazhon Park, a decision taken by head coach Franck Haise that underlines the club’s growing faith in the former Lille prospect.
Bouanani’s resurgence comes at a crucial moment in the Ligue 1 campaign, with Nice firmly entrenched in the battle for European qualification.
Bouanani’s recent performances have caught the eye, notably earning him a starting berth ahead of the in-form Evann Guessand in the previous fixture against Reims.
Despite Guessand having netted 11 times in the league this season, Haise opted for Bouanani—a move that was seen as bold but ultimately vindicated by the youngster’s dynamic display.
Though he did not find the back of the net, Bouanani impressed with his sharp movement, creative flair, and ability to read the game under pressure.
His technical execution and pace added a new dimension to Nice’s attacking play, prompting Haise to publicly commend his player’s resilience and professionalism.
“Bouanani, if he’s back, it’s because he didn’t give up,” Haise said at his pre-match press conference. “There are players who let themselves fade into the background.
He didn’t. He kept working, he stayed silent, and he waited for his moment.”
Those words reflect not only the coach’s admiration for the player’s attitude, but also the internal competition Bouanani has had to navigate throughout the season. With a tightly contested attacking setup, his opportunities have been limited—he has logged just over 800 minutes in Ligue 1—but his impact has been tangible.
With two goals and three assists to his name, Bouanani’s numbers speak to a player capable of delivering when called upon. More importantly, his recent form suggests he may now be poised to take on a larger role in the closing stages of the season.
His inclusion in the starting line-up against Rennes is viewed by many within the club as a deserved reward for his commitment, but also as a statement of intent from Haise.
The Nice boss is clearly prepared to back youth and potential when the work ethic aligns with quality on the pitch.
Tonight’s match against Rennes could prove to be a defining moment in Bouanani’s season. A strong performance on such an important occasion would not only boost his status within the squad but also signal his readiness to be a key contributor as Nice chase European football.
Having waited patiently for his chance, Bouanani now has the opportunity to cement his place and show that his return to the spotlight is no flash in the pan—but rather the result of grit, growth, and an unwavering belief in his own potential.
