Nemanja MATIC

Stade Rennais were in the market for an experienced defensive midfielder following the combined departures of Xeka and Lesley Ugochukwu, and on 14th August 2023, they signed Nemanja Matic. The 35 year old Serbian international arrived from Roma for 2 Million Euros with bonuses. Despite the importance attached to him by Roma boss, José Mourinho, Matic chose to move to Rennes despite a late interest from Paris Saint Germain. Matic had previously reached the Europa League final on three occasions, with Benfica, Manchester United and Chelsea, for whom he had three Premier League winners' medals. From his first appearances for the club Nemanja Matic demonstrated his above-average ability and class on the pitch. However, the team was struggling collectively, and the first part of the season was below-par, until the resignation of Manager Bruno Genesio in November 2023. Shortly after the return from the Christmas break at the beginning of 2024, the Serb decided unilaterally that he wanted to leave the club, and tried to force through a move to Lyon, on the pretense that the city of Rennes didn't provide his family the lifestyle that he was seeking. Faced by the intransigence of the club, and after publically excusing his actions, he would finally end up signing for Lyon (at the time occupying the Relegation Play-Off spot) on 27th January 2024 for a fee of 3 Million Euros.