Stade Rennais FC announced on July 5 2026 the signing of 21‑year‑old striker Eliezer Mayenda from Sunderland for an estimated €20 million. The deal, made possible by the sale of Jérémy Jacquet to Liverpool, puts the Breton side at the centre of the French transfer market.

Who is Eliezer Mayenda?

Born in Zaragoza to a Congolese father and Togolese mother, Mayenda moved to France at age 9. He grew up in Île‑de‑France, playing for Breuillet FC and CS Brétigny before joining Sochaux’s academy in 2019. At 16 years and 8 months he signed his first professional contract, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history, ahead of Jérémy Ménez.

How did he shine in England?

After 15 Ligue 2 appearances with Sochaux, Mayenda transferred to Sunderland in the Championship. In the 2024‑2025 season he scored the decisive 88th‑minute goal against Coventry, sending the Black Cats to the play‑off final. His impact made him a fan favourite and a key figure in Sunderland’s promotion push.

Why did Stade Rennais bet on him?

The club needed a centre‑forward who could both create and finish. Mayenda, already an Spain U‑21 international since 2025, offers a rare mix of pace, technique and top‑level experience. He also received advice from former Rennais players Wilson Isidor and Enzo Le Fée, both of whom played with him at Sunderland, as well as from Régis Le Bris, who coached Stade Rennais FC youth teams in the 2000s.

What are the stakes for the upcoming season?

Stade Rennais FC hopes Mayenda will become their main offensive outlet in Ligue 1 2026‑2027. With a strengthened budget after Jacquet’s departure, the club targets a Champions League spot. If the young striker replicates his English efficiency, he could help the Rouge et Noir surpass traditional rivals and cement their status as European contenders.