Season 1959/1960

Having secured their league status relatively easily in the 1958/1959 season, Stade Rennais would make some astute signings to start the new season well. Despite the departures of the irreplaceable Cuissard, and the important midfielder Imbernon, the Red and Blacks still managed to strengthen their side, with the signings of Gouès and Cédolin in defence, Ziemczak in midfield, and Hernas and Ossey in attack. After winning four of their opening eight league fixtures, Rennes slid gradually down the table, finishing the first half of the season in a lowly 16th spot. Indeed, Rennes would end up playing with fire all season, varying between the relegation zone and mid-table obscurity. One plus point in the season was that they were the only side in the First Division who didn't concede a goal at RC Paris (who amassed 118 goals), Rennes returning with a 2-0 win from the capital. And it would be the return fixture at Rennes where the Red and Blacks would finally secure their top-flight status, defeating RC Paris again, this time by 3-2, just before the end of the season. Rennes would end up 15th in the league, with the 8th ranked defence and 17th attack. In the French Cup, Rennes were knocked out in the Last 16 by AS Saint Etienne, fellow First Division team at the time, having knocked out two amateur clubs in the previous rounds.