25/26 Preview #12: FC Nantes
Last Season
The 2024-2025 season was all about survival rather than progress for Les Canaris. Despite a strong start — briefly climbing into the top three after Matchday 3 — a winless run of 10 matches dragged them into the relegation mix. A December derby victory over Rennes proved a rare highlight, while cup ambitions were cut short in the Round of 32 of the Coupe de France. By the season’s end, Antoine Kombouaré had departed, paving the way for a fresh new direction under new boss
The Coach: Luís Castro
The 44 year-old Portuguese coach arrived in France as an unknown quantity back in 2023, going from coaching some of Benfica's best youth talents at the U19 level to being launched into senior football management in Ligue 2 BKT with Dunkerque. From there Castro has been implementing an entertaining and expansive brand of football with a blend of veterans and young talent, and was the mastermind behind one of the biggest underdog stories in French football last season. Fresh off a promotion push and a Coupe de France run which led Les Maritimes to the semi-finals, Waldermar Kita and FC Nantes saw enough in the tactician to get Les Canaris back to playing à la Nantaise.
Known for his emphasis on structured build-up and quick transitions, Castro’s challenge will be to instil belief in a group accustomed to tight, low-scoring affairs. His track record with younger players will be enticing for the La Beaujoire faithful.
Key arrivals
Nantes have been active in the market as they look to freshen up their squad for their new head coach. Johann Lepenant has now arrived permanently from Lyon to add a bit more energy and tenacity in midfield, while Nigerian international Chidozie Awaziem joins from Colorado Rapids to strengthen the defence. There is further experience at the back with Uroš Radaković, signed from Sivasspor, and in attack with the addition of the experienced Youssef El-Arabi from APOEL Nicosia. The midfield has also been reinforced with Hyeok-kyu from Celtic and Hong Hyun-seok on loan from Mainz 05, while France U20 goalkeeper Alexis Mirbach (Metz) and Amady Camara have also joined to provide depth.
Key departures
The Canaries have lost some important figures this summer. Douglas Augusto has moved to Krasnodar, while long-serving winger Moses Simon has joined Paris FC. Captain Pedro Chirivella has departed for Panathinaïkos, and centre-back Jean-Charles Castelletto has signed for Al-Duhail SC. Promising youngster Nathan Zézé has left for Neom SC in Saudi Arabia, while several stalwarts — including Nicolas Pallois, Florent Mollet, and Marcus Coco — have departed at the end of their contracts. Goalkeeper Alban Lafont has left on loan to Panathinaïkos, and a handful of younger players have gone out to gain experience.
Remember When...
FC Nantes’ proudest chapter in modern history came in the 1994/95 season, when Jean-Claude Suaudeau’s side went unbeaten in Ligue 1 McDonald’s on their way to the title. Playing an elegant, possession-based style that came to be known as jeu à la nantaise, they finished the campaign with just four draws and 27 wins, a record that still resonates with supporters today. The following season, that same side reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, narrowly losing 4-3 on aggregate to eventual winners Juventus.
Cult hero: Mickaël Landreau
A graduate of Nantes’ famed academy, Landreau made his Ligue 1 debut at the age of 17 and went on to become a club legend. The goalkeeper racked up over 300 appearances for the Canaries, captained the side, and played a central role in the 2000/01 Ligue 1 title win. Renowned for his leadership, penalty-saving prowess, and longevity, Landreau remains one of the most iconic figures to wear the yellow and green, embodying the club’s tradition of promoting homegrown talent.
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>>25/26 Preview #11: AS Monaco
