LIGUE 1 – RENNES LOOKS TO START STRONG AS THEY TRAVEL TO BASTIA
Stade Rennais begins its 2015/2016 Ligue 1 campaign with a tricky trip to Corsica to face SC Bastia this Saturday. The two clubs, who finished 12th (Rennes) and 8th (Bastia) respectively last season, are both eager to kick off the new year on a positive note.
Rennes retained key winger Paul-Georges N’Tep and renewed their confidence in coach Philippe Montanier. Although their preseason form has been encouraging, the challenge of playing at Bastia’s Furiani stadium is expected to be difficult.
Mozambican center-back Mexer, however, remains optimistic ahead of the clash. Speaking to the club’s official website, he said:
“It would already be great to come away with a victory. We’re going to try to be ranked higher. We know each other and we’ve all progressed together. The squad seems stronger to me. I think we can have a great season.”
Despite being regularly tipped for a breakthrough campaign, Rennes has often underperformed. Last season’s 9th-place finish failed to meet expectations, with many supporters left disappointed. In response, the club has added several new signings in hopes of injecting fresh energy and ambition into the team.
Rennes will be hoping to finally live up to the hype this season and begin their journey with a win in Corsica.
