Evenly matched opener at Roazhon Park
After pipping Lens to the Europa Conference League qualification spot in Ligue 1 last term, Rennes play host on matchday one. Despite slipping to seventh on the final day it was an outstanding return to the top-flight in 2020/21 for the visitors, making up for lost time and reinstating their position as dangerous opposition at the level. Key performer Gael Kakuta was a standout for Lens last campaign and the 30-year-old made his move permanent this summer from Amiens, with the club looking to go again in 2021/22. Rennes should be stronger than their sixth place finish this time around, not balancing Champions League exertions with domestic efforts.
Background
21-year-old centre back Loic Bade made the switch to Rennes from Lens after impressing last term, the Rennais swooped to bring him in as a marquee signing for a fee of £15.3million. Precocious forward Kamaldeen Sulemana has also pricked the imagination of French football fans, the 19-year-old signed from Nordsjaelland for £13.5million. These two add to an exciting crop of young players that are getting attention from all over the world, Eduardo Camavinga and Jeremy Doku will be closely monitored this upcoming campaign particularly after the former caught the eye for Belgium at Euro 2020.
The Rennais come into this one as even money favourites, with the tide turning a touch towards the back end of last season. Lens were not punching above their weight however, they posted the fifth best process via expected points with Rennes just behind in sixth. They could spring a few surprise yet again this time, looking to show they have the staying power in the top half of the division.
The Europa Conference League competition may suit Rennes’ squad size and quality a lot more, able to rest and rotate more efficiently instead, with the consistency of their league form improving. Lens were off like a jet last term, inside the top four positions in the early knockings of the campaign, however after a productive window it would Rennes come in the better prepared, with the more high profile squad on paper.
If Doku can hit the ground running this season after gaining admirers in the last couple of months, Rennes should be firmly poised to a top four finish.
Rennes are the pick here with the wind in their sails following a strong end to the 2020/21 season.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-1, a good result on the road for Lens. Kamaldeen Sulemana with a goal on his debut for the hosts.