Livescore
The aspiration for Stade Rennais this season was to return to Europe. The prospects of Europe are a long way away for them at the moment, with manager Julien Stéphan under pressure with his side 13th in Ligue 1. Naturally, there has been criticism.
For first-choice goalkeeper and captain Steve Mandanda (39), though, the criticism is warranted.
“The criticism is justified. It’s never easy to be criticised, but it’s part of football: when it goes well, there’s praise; when you’re less good, as is the case right now, you have to accept it and work,” says Mandanda.
That work begins on Friday when they host Le Havre AC, who are only two points below them, in the relegation playoff position.
One of the most experienced players in Ligue 1 history with 545 career appearances, Mandanda has had a difficult campaign, conceding 12 goals so far.
One of his toughest moments of the campaign occurred in the closing stages of their match with RC Lens as he missed a ball inside the box, which allowed the visitors to equalise, costing Rennes two points.
A World Cup winner with France in 2018, Mandanda continues to wear the captain’s armband this season after Benjamin Bourigeaud (30) left for Qatar.
The leadership of Mandanda is being questioned at the moment, with many suggesting there is a shortage of that on this squad without Bourigeaud or Martin Terrier (27).
The former longtime Olympique de Marseille shot-stopper said he needs to step up and make more decisive saves to enable his team to collect more points. He adds that all he’s trying to do is focus on his role and his job.
GFFN | Joel Lefevre
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