Cameroon left-back Aboubakar Nagida is expected to start for Stade Rennais against Lille on Sunday, at the expense of Quentin Merlin, while Manchester United are reportedly tracking him for the winter transfer window.
The pecking order is shifting on Stade Rennais’ left flank. Mahamadou Aboubakar Nagida, a 21-year-old Cameroon international left-back, is expected to start against Lille on Sunday 8 November at 3pm at Roazhon Park, according to the probable line-up revealed by L’Équipe and relayed by OneFootball. The youngster has reportedly moved ahead of Quentin Merlin, the club’s left-back, in the mind of Rennes coach Franck Haise.
This likely start comes amid a busy spell of news for Nagida. According to TEAMtalk, cited by Actu Cameroun, Manchester United have reportedly placed him on their shortlist to strengthen their left flank in the winter transfer window. It is a mere rumour at this stage, with no offer or negotiation mentioned by the sources.
A 5-3-2 line-up against Lille
The Rennes coaching staff are therefore expected to field Nagida in a five-man defence, in a 5-3-2, for the visit of Lille. Quentin Merlin, for his part, would pay the price for this choice and would not feature in the probable starting XI, according to the French press. A decision that crowns the progress of the Cameroonian, who came through the ranks at Rennes and has also been used with the reserve team since 2023.
Rennes will also have to do without Estéban Lepaul, injured in the ankle and absent from collective training. His absence comes after a heavy 5-2 defeat at Nice on 30 October, the third loss of the season in all competitions.
Manchester United on the lookout
Across the Channel, his profile is reportedly being closely monitored. TEAMtalk, cited by Actu Cameroun, says English scouts reportedly watched him at two recent Europa League matches. The information remains a rumour, however, and no official approach has been reported by the sources.
On the pitch, the player already has a solid record: 40 appearances in Ligue 1 for Rennes, with 2 goals. Standing 1.75 m tall, he is also, according to the stats for the Rennes-Lille match published by AS, the Rennes player most often fouled this season.
An opportunity to seize
For Nagida, this match against Lille is a window to confirm Franck Haise’s trust. The Cameroonian, a product of the club’s academy, could establish himself long-term on the left if his performance convinces, while Quentin Merlin may have to wait his turn on the bench.
The match is set for Sunday 8 November at 3pm at Roazhon Park. At Manchester United, a decision on a possible offer is expected during the winter transfer window.