French-Ivorian Junior Ake signs first professional contract with Stade Rennais

Junior Ake has signed his first professional contract with Stade Rennais, committing to the club until June 2029 and marking a major step in his rising career.

The 18-year-old, of Ivorian origin, has rapidly progressed through the Rennes system since joining in 2022.

He has impressed with the club’s reserve team in National 3, making 14 appearances and providing one assist this season.

Ake also made his Ligue 1 debut two weeks ago in a 3-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at Roazhon Park, announcing his arrival on the top-flight stage.

“I’ve put in a lot of effort over the last four years with this goal in mind,” Ake said. “The joy I felt with the fans after the victory against Paris makes me eager to get back to Roazhon Park and make my debut on the pitch. I hope that will be soon.”

Ake began his football journey at Villiers-le-Bel and later at AAS Sarcelles before joining Rennes’ academy.

He has also been a standout for the club’s U19 side, appearing in 37 matches and scoring once, and has earned call-ups to the French U18 and U19 national teams.

His versatility allows him to play both as a left-sided centre-back and a full-back, adding tactical options for the team.

The signing reflects Rennes’ confidence in Ake’s potential as a future first-team regular.

His rapid rise from the academy to professional status underscores the club’s commitment to developing young talent and integrating them into top-level competition.

For Ake, the professional contract is both a reward for years of dedication and a motivator to continue his progression.

As he begins this next phase, all eyes will be on how he adapts to regular first-team football and builds on his early successes.