One to Watch: Yassine Benhattab - Nantes' breakthrough winger

FC Nantes have gone under a significant overhaul this summer under new manager Luís Castro. Despite an opening day loss to Paris Saint-Germain, the Canaris managed to show glimpses of a new playing style - as well as a promising Ligue 1 McDonald's debut for 22 year-old winger Yassine Benhattab.

The Franco-Algerian began his life in Marseille, where he struggled to break through after a long period in the youth academy. A lack of first team opportunities in his hometown prompted a move to Ligue 2 side Chamois Niortais, where he finally made his professional debut in the second tier. But from there, he had to drop into the third division at Aubagne before being snapped up in 2024 and was loaned back to the Provence region club- a move that would ultimately propel his career to new heights.

The FFF Championnat National was a happy hunting ground for the exciting winger - who had pace, percussion, and a technical intelligence which was considered beyond his years. In the 2024-2025 season he would score seven goals and provide 10 assists for Aubagne, earning the league's Best Player Award in the process. This led to his inclusion during pre-season and a daunting first game against European Champions PSG.

Despite the daunting opposition, Benhattab impressed with his composure and attacking intent. Nantes coach Luís Castro highlighted his performance: “Benhattab did exactly what we asked: dribble, reach the final third, deliver quality crosses. He is a player who can make a difference.”

Benhattab - a sign of things to come for Castro's Nantes?

There were signs of a new style of play under Luís Castro during the match against PSG, and it seemed to play into the qualities of Benhattab with his quick pace down the right on the transitional phases of play. On Ligue+ the young Marseillais's performance didn't go unnoticed by PSG legend Javier Pastore. "I'm surprised by Benhattab. Every time he gets the ball, he pushes forward. It's exceptional to see him play," said the Argentine on the winger.

Benhattab's Ligue 1 debut in numbers

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 15.38.22.webp — *Source: Opta*

A youthful and exciting change of direction for Nantes, encapsulated by a player who looks ready to come to the attention of all of Ligue 1 McDonald's. He is not the final polished product yet, but the youngster is certainly one to follow this season…