Rodez Aveyron Football have secured the return of Mathis Saka on loan for the 2026-2027 season. The deal, announced by Toulouse Football Club on Sunday 31 August, includes an option to buy for the Aveyron-based club.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is already very familiar with the Ruthénois environment. He was previously loaned by TFC for the 2025-2026 season, completing a full campaign under manager Didier Santini. Saka made 24 Ligue 2 BKT appearances, scoring one goal and providing three assists. His only goal came at the Stade Paul-Lignon against Troyes, a moment that resonated with supporters.
What role will Saka play in the current dynamic?
Mathis Saka's return comes at a very positive sporting time for RAF. The club currently sits 4th in the Ligue 2 standings with 7 points, from two wins, one draw and one loss in the first four matchdays. With 10 goals scored and 7 conceded, the team has a +3 goal difference. This recent form, captured by the DWLW sequence, provides fertile ground for the player's integration. The midfielder can bring his creativity to a squad that is producing attacking football, as shown by the goal tally available on our stats page.
The club's stated aim is to stay in the race for the top spots, sitting just five points behind leaders Saint-Étienne. Saka's arrival is meant to bolster the squad to sustain this ambition over the long season. Toulouse FC wished the player well in a statement: "L’ensemble du TéFéCé adresse à Mathis tous ses vœux de réussite pour cette nouvelle saison sous les couleurs du Rodez Aveyron Football!"
How will his immediate integration unfold?
Mathis Saka joins a group with little time to prepare for their next outing. Rodez Aveyron Football travel to face FC Metz this Saturday, 5 September. Metz, currently 7th, represent a tough opponent for this away fixture. This key match can be found in detail on our fixtures calendar.
His prior knowledge of the club, staff, and part of the squad is a major asset. He won't require a long adaptation period and could be available for selection quickly. His experience from last season, where he earned playing time and confidence, will be invaluable. He joins a squad whose full roster is viewable on our squad page.
What is the significance of this deal for Rodez?
This loan deal with an option to buy is a strategic move for Rodez's sporting direction. It allows them to recruit a player proven at the Ligue 2 level without a permanent financial commitment upfront. After assessing his performances over a full season, the club can decide whether to trigger the option.
For Mathis Saka, it's the chance to continue his development in a familiar and supportive setting, with the goal of building on the promise he showed last season. His previous loan spell of 24 Ligue 2 matches proves he already has the level to contribute significantly. In a very tight league where every point counts, this kind of targeted recruitment can make the difference.
The challenge begins this weekend with the trip to Metz, an immediate test for the whole squad aiming to confirm their strong start to the season.
