Seko Fofana’s move to Stade Rennais has been met with mixed reactions, with one French football consultant expressing skepticism about the Ivorian midfielder’s ability to shine in Ligue 1 following his return from the Saudi Pro League.
The 29-year-old has rejoined the French top flight after a brief but impactful spell in the Gulf, where he played for Al Nassr.
Rennes secured his signature for a reported fee of 20 million euros, bringing him back to Ligue 1 just over a year after he departed RC Lens.
During his time with Lens, Fofana established himself as a key figure and earned recognition as one of the league’s standout midfielders.
However, following his time in Saudi Arabia, where his form reportedly dipped, questions have been raised about whether Fofana can regain his peak level of performance.
French consultant Walid Acherchour is among those cautious about the midfielder’s ability to make an immediate impact for Rennes.
I’m waiting to see because we’ve lost sight of him, Acherchour commented.
The specialists who follow the Saudi Pro League say that he was on a very different dynamic than when he left Lens.
Will it work under Sampaoli? I’m waiting to see.
Acherchour’s concerns stem from the belief that Fofana may not have been able to maintain his fitness and form while playing in the less competitive Saudi Pro League, which he feels could affect the player’s integration into Rennes’ squad.
Despite these reservations, Acherchour acknowledges that the transfer could still prove beneficial for Rennes.
He believes Fofana’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable for a club that has struggled for consistency in recent seasons.
On paper, he is a player who has experience, and Rennes lacks that,” Acherchour said. “Rennes is in difficulty, Rennes needs to solidify its midfield, so yes, why not.
The move, which sees Fofana return to a familiar league but with a new club, presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
While the midfielder’s potential remains undeniable, the uncertainty surrounding his form following his time in Saudi Arabia adds an element of doubt as he prepares to join Bruno Génésio’s side at Stade Rennais.
As Rennes looks to reinforce its squad and secure a more competitive presence in Ligue 1, Fofana’s role will be pivotal.
How he adapts to his new surroundings and whether he can replicate the form that made him a star in France will likely determine the success of his return to Ligue 1.
