Paul-George Ntep Reflects on Challenging Start at Rennes Following January Move
Paul-George Ntep admits he has struggled to replicate the form that earned him recognition at AJ Auxerre since his move to Rennes during the winter transfer window. The Franco-Cameroonian winger has yet to hit the heights he achieved with his former club, acknowledging that his transition to Ligue 1 has been challenging.
In an exclusive interview with Goal, Ntep opened up about his early experiences at Rennes, where he found it difficult to settle and integrate with his new teammates.
“In all the matches I played, I was never at the level I was at Auxerre,” Ntep explained. “It was tough to find my rhythm and build chemistry with my teammates. For me, this period has been a learning curve. At the beginning, I was a little shy, reserved, and withdrawn.”
The 22-year-old’s adaptation to Rennes was further disrupted by injury, which Ntep suggests came at a time when he was beginning to find his feet.
“The injury came when I was starting to gain confidence and take more freedom in my game,” he reflected. “It was a setback, but also a chance to rest and recover.”
While the injury was frustrating, Ntep views it as a blessing in disguise, offering him the opportunity to fully recuperate after a demanding first half of the season with Auxerre. He sees the remainder of the season with Rennes as a bonus, helping him acclimate to the demands of Ligue 1 and the expectations at a top-level club.
“That’s life, and the injury gave me the chance to recover well from the first part of the season with Auxerre,” Ntep said. “For me, this end of the season is a bonus. I came here to raise my level to Ligue 1, the top level, and integrate into the team. And that’s never easy.”
Ntep’s comments suggest that he remains optimistic about his potential at Rennes, despite the struggles of his early days in Brittany. With more time and a full recovery, the winger believes he can reach the level required to succeed in Ligue 1 and justify his transfer.
As Rennes look to close out the season on a high, Ntep’s progression will be crucial to the club’s future aspirations. For the player, this period of adaptation is key to his long-term success in France’s top division.
