More than a quarter of the players called up by Zinedine Zidane for the France national team came through the Stade Rennais FC academy. This proportion, which rises to over one in three when including current squad members, shows the major influence of the Stade Rennais FC youth system on French football.
The club's academy director, Denis Arnault, expressed a feeling of pride but above all of recognition. "First of all, a great pride! But I believe the prevailing feeling is rather one of recognition," he said. This achievement comes as the club celebrates the 50th anniversary of its training centre, a long-term investment now bearing fruit at the highest level.
Among the France internationals developed at Stade Rennais FC are established names like Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and young prodigy Désiré Doué, last season's Golden Boy award winner. Zidane's list also includes defender Jérémy Jacquet, whose potential was long predicted at the club, and midfielder Esteban Lepaul, who received his first call-up at age 26. Lepaul, whose work ethic and determination have won over supporters, is currently Stade Rennais's top scorer this season with three goals in four appearances.
Recognition for an entire ecosystem
Philippe Barraud, the academy's head of recruitment, emphasises the collective work. Behind every breakthrough player lies a team of coaches, educators, and support staff who oversee their holistic development. "It's truly a very beautiful story. Personally, it's the third time I've experienced this," a club official confided, referencing similar past moments. This culture of excellence allows young players to aim for the highest goals, as shown by the path of Adrien Truffert, who moved to Bournemouth after a convincing season.
This national pride contrasts with the first team's mixed results at the start of the campaign. Les Rouge et Noir just drew 0-0 away to Sturm Graz in the Europa League and are on a five-match unbeaten run in the league (DLWLD). They travel to the Groupama Stadium this Thursday, 19 September, to face Olympique Lyonnais, a key away fixture to climb the table.
The academy's success is a strategic asset for the club, both on sporting and economic fronts. It helps build a strong identity and feeds the professional squad with talents accustomed to the Stade Rennais FC philosophy. To follow the progress of all players developed at the club, including those now elsewhere, our squad page provides a complete overview. The next generation, with prospects like Lucas Da Cunha or Andy Diouf, is already in the wings to continue this fine tradition.
More detail at RMC Sport Football
