Franco-Malian defender Djibril Sidibé joins Le Mans after Toulouse exit

Former France international of Malian descent Djibril Sidibé has found a new club after agreeing to join newly promoted Ligue 1 side Le Mans FC.

The 34-year-old defender was a free agent following the end of his contract with Toulouse, where he spent last season as a regular member of the team.

Sidibé has now committed his future to Le Mans on a two-year contract, with an option to extend the agreement for another season.

The move sees the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner return to France’s top division with a club that secured promotion from Ligue 2 last season.

Sidibé brings considerable experience to the Le Mans squad, having spent much of his career competing at the highest level in French and European football. His career has included spells with Lille, AS Monaco, Troyes and Toulouse, making Le Mans his fifth Ligue 1 club.

His time at Toulouse came to an end after the club decided against extending his contract following the arrival of new head coach Jens Berthel Askou.

Despite being 34, Sidibé remained an important player for Toulouse last season, featuring regularly before his departure at the end of the campaign.

His experience could prove valuable to a Le Mans side preparing to compete in Ligue 1 after their promotion. The club will be hoping his leadership and understanding of top-level football can help them navigate the challenges that come with returning to the elite.

Sidibé could make his Le Mans debut in the opening league fixture against Brest on Saturday, although it remains unclear whether he will be ready to feature immediately.

For the veteran defender, the move represents another opportunity to compete in France’s top flight and continue a career that has already included international success and more than a decade of professional football.