Rodez Aveyron Football is at the centre of several late transfer window moves, with two confirmed arrivals and a potential departure. The Ruthénois club, fourth in Ligue 2 with seven points, sees its squad evolve just days before the trip to face Metz.

Who is new signing Marco Essimi?

Marco Essimi is joining Rodez AF, according to information from Morning Foot. The winger leaves Portuguese side Alverca after just a few weeks for an immediate return to Ligue 2. He arrives on a free transfer, with Alverca retaining a sell-on percentage.

His spell at Dunkerque last season demonstrated his efficiency. In nineteen matches averaging sixty minutes, he scored five goals and provided three assists. His finishing statistics are notable, with a shot conversion rate evaluated at 91. He also brings a useful defensive work rate, with a score of 73 for interceptions.

Why is Mathis Saka returning?

Mathis Saka is returning to Rodez on a season-long loan with an option to buy, as reported by rodezaveyronfootball.com. The Toulouse FC midfielder, a product of TFC's academy, already wore the Ruthénois shirt during a previous loan. He made an impression in the second half of the season with seven starts, three assists and one goal.

The 19-year-old player is looking to confirm his talent with regular playing time. Possessing good technique and appreciated vision, he must establish himself in a midfield aiming for the top of the table. Supporters can follow the squad's evolution on our squad page.

Will Ibrahima Balde leave Rodez?

Ibrahima Balde is a target for FC Lorient, according to africasoccer.com. The 23-year-old French-Senegalese striker has started the season explosively with five goals in four Ligue 2 matches. He has scored on average every sixty-nine minutes, contributing to the ten goals scored by the team this season.

Having joined on a free from Lens in July 2024, Balde is under contract with RAF until June 2028. Any offer will therefore need to convince the Ruthénois board. His current market value is estimated at two million euros. Rodez's current standing, five points behind leaders Saint-Étienne, can be checked on our standings.

What is the sporting context for these moves?

These moves come as Rodez holds a record of two wins, one draw and one loss. The goal difference is positive at three. The team must now prepare for its next match, an important away fixture against seventh-placed Metz on 5 September 2026. The full schedule is available in our fixtures section.

The arrival of Essimi brings experience and finishing on the wings. Saka's return offers creativity in midfield. Balde's situation, meanwhile, shows the attractiveness of the club's performing players. The next away match will be a first test for this evolving group.