Julien Stéphan’s return to Rennes in November 2023 has not been as successful as hoped, and the club is now considering a potential managerial change. The 43-year-old French coach, who previously led Rennes from 2018 to 2021, has had a mixed record since his comeback, with 15 wins, 5 draws, and 11 losses.
Footmercato report that Internal sources suggest that Stéphan’s performance has not been entirely convincing, especially given the quality of the squad at his disposal. Some players are reportedly dissatisfied with his coaching style, and there are rumors of potential departures during the summer transfer window.
The situation was further complicated by a recent 3-0 defeat in a friendly match against Guingamp, after which Stéphan publicly criticized the team’s attitude and performance. This has only added to the growing tension within the club.
New sporting director Frederic Massara is already exploring potential replacements, with former AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli emerging as a top candidate. Massara and Pioli have a positive working relationship from their time together at Milan, where Pioli led the team to a Serie A title before departing in May.
Adding to the intrigue, Pioli’s agent, Gabriele Giufrida, is heavily involved in Rennes’ transfer activities, having facilitated recent player acquisitions and negotiations. This connection could potentially smooth the way for Pioli’s appointment if Rennes decides to make a change.
The coming days will be crucial for Stéphan to turn things around and secure his position. Rennes’ disappointing performance last season, despite significant investments and a strong squad, has raised expectations for the upcoming campaign. If Stéphan fails to demonstrate improvement quickly, the club may look to bring in a new manager to lead the team forward.
