Steven Nzonzi nears shock return to Ligue 2 with USL Dunkerque

Steven Nzonzi is on the verge of a return to French football, with Ligue 2 side USL Dunkerque set to sign the experienced midfielder.

According to reports, the 37-year-old former France international has reached an agreement in principle with the club, with only a few final details left before the deal is completed.

Nzonzi has been without a team since leaving Stoke City earlier this summer and is now poised to play in France for the first time since his spell at Rennes ended in 2021. If the move goes through, it will mark his first appearance in Ligue 2 in 17 years, having last featured in the division with Amiens before departing in 2009.

Over a long and decorated career, the 2018 World Cup winner has represented clubs such as Blackburn Rovers, Stoke City, Sevilla, AS Roma, Galatasaray and Al-Rayyan, building a reputation as a composed, physically imposing presence in midfield.

While the length of his contract with Dunkerque has not yet been disclosed, Nzonzi is expected to bring leadership, experience and calm to a squad looking to establish itself firmly in Ligue 2.