Kim KÄLLSTRÖM

Kim Källström arrived from his native Sweden in January 2004 to become the playmaker, replacing the disappointing Lucas, who had left for Japan. Strong, technically-gifted and with a powerful shot, the Swede did enough to convince his team-mates and bosses straight away in his first matches. He scored 7 goals in 21 appearances, and was at the hub of Rennes side under Bölöni. Supported by skilful players such as Monterrubio, Didot or Gourcuff, and positioned just behind marksman Frei, the Swedish international was a symbol of some of the most spectacular football witnessed at the Route de Lorient Stadium in the decade, and they achieved qualification for the UEFA Cup. Although he was much sought-after by other clubs, he stayed at Rennes, and was in sparkling form against Osasuna. Inspite of always producing top notch performances, the left-footer missed out on qualification for the Champions League on the last day of the season against Lille (2-2). A legend in the eyes of Rennes’ fans, he joined Lyon for 6 Million Euros in 2006.