Rodez Aveyron Football have confirmed the return of forward Mathis Saka on a one-year loan with an option to buy, a move reported this Tuesday by Centre Presse Aveyron. This signing comes just minutes after the permanent transfer of Samy Benchamma to JS Kabylie in Algeria was announced.
The Aveyron club, currently sitting 4th in the Ligue 2 table with 7 points from four games, is bolstering its attack with a familiar face. Saka, who will turn 20 in September, already played for Rodez during the 2025-2026 season, making 26 appearances and scoring one goal.
Why did Rodez opt for Mathis Saka?
The acquisition of Mathis Saka addresses an immediate need following Samy Benchamma's departure. The young Toulouse player is no stranger to the squad or to manager Didier Santini. During his previous spell, he gradually earned his place. "He revealed himself little by little to become one of the manager Didier Santini's key men during the incredible unbeaten run stopped only at Annecy in early August," Santini recalled.
His versatile profile and recent Ligue 2 experience make him a valuable asset. Rodez, who have scored 10 goals this season while conceding 7, aims to maintain its offensive momentum. The loan-with-option deal represents minimal risk for the club, allowing time to assess the player's development in a competitive context, just five points behind leaders Saint-Étienne.
What is this young forward's career path?
Mathis Saka was developed at Toulouse FC, joining their academy at U15 level after starting at Cugnaux and Colomiers. He signed his first professional contract with TFC in June 2024 at age 17. His senior career properly began in January 2025 with a substitute appearance in the Coupe de France against Stade Lavallois.
Last season was pivotal for him. Beyond his 26 Ligue 2 games with Rodez, he featured in both promotion play-off matches. This season, he has even tasted Ligue 1 football, making his debut on 22 August as a substitute in Toulouse's 2-0 loss to Lyon. Capped twice by the France U19 team, he now boasts a varied set of experiences.
How does he fit into the current sporting project?
Saka's arrival comes at a key moment in the season. Rodez's recent form reads DWLW and they face a tough away trip to 7th-placed Metz on September 5th. The coaching staff is counting on his existing knowledge of the group and tactics for a quick integration.
His return fills a gap in the squad's depth, an important detail for navigating a long campaign. Fans can track the team's and player's progress on our dedicated squad page. The objective remains clear: to maintain this position in the upper reaches of the table, as reflected in our live standings.
The next challenge for Mathis Saka and his teammates is this away fixture against FC Metz on Saturday, 5 September 2026.
