**Mehdi Zeffane Returns for Rennes Ahead of Home Clash with Nice**
Algerian defender Mehdi Zeffane is set to return from injury and could feature for Stade Rennais in Sunday’s Ligue 1 clash against Nice. The match, which concludes the 10th round of the French top flight, sees Rennes host a side that, like the Bretons, has enjoyed a strong start to the season.
Following the recent international break, Rennes have recovered two key players who were sidelined during their last outing at Monaco, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Alongside Zeffane, midfielder Gelson Fernandes is also available for selection. Head coach Philippe Montanier confirmed both players are candidates for the squad, along with Yacouba Sylla and Giovanni Sio, who was suspended in Monaco.
Rennes’ injury list still includes Mexer (patellar tendon), goalkeeper Benoît Costil (knee), Dimitri Cavaré (knee), Paul-Georges Ntep (tibia), and Ousmane Dembélé, who is in the recovery phase. Despite these absences, the club will be bolstered by the return of Zeffane, whose defensive solidity and experience are expected to strengthen the backline.
Rennes began the season strongly, appearing on the podium early on, but a run of four consecutive draws has caused them to slip down the table. With home advantage against Nice, the Bretons will be eager to react and regain momentum as they aim to climb back toward the top positions in Ligue 1.
Sunday’s match offers Rennes an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and capitalize on Zeffane’s return, providing a much-needed boost to the squad and the fans alike.
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