Rodez announced Thursday evening the signing of Mathis Touho and Antonin Cartillier, two key recruits to replace the departures of Taïryk Arconte and Wilitty Younoussa. The club currently sits 5th in Ligue 2 with 58 points, boasting a recent form of WWDWW.

Who are the new arrivals?

Mathis Touho, 21, comes from Villefranche‑Beaujolais in National. The forward, accustomed to playing on the left wing, has signed a three‑year contract. He scored only three goals in 14 matches last season and failed to find the net in his six Ligue 2 appearances with Amiens. His power and speed are expected to energize an attack that lost its top scorer.

Antonin Cartillier, 22, joins Rodez from Rouen as a free agent. Trained at AS Monaco, he has mostly operated as a left‑wing back but will primarily be used in midfield. He also signs for three years. Although he has never played in Ligue 2, he made a Ligue 1 appearance with Monaco against Reims in 2024.

Why are these signings essential?

Arconte’s move to Millwall left an offensive void. Rodez has conceded 39 goals and scored 45 this season, a +6 goal difference, but losing a prolific scorer demands immediate reinforcement. Touho, despite his modest record, possesses the physical profile Didier Santini wants to exploit in his 3‑5‑2 system.

On the other side, the midfield lost Wilitty Younoussa. Cartillier’s versatility on the flank and in the centre offers a tactical solution to fill that gap. His ability to cover multiple positions convinced the Ruthénois recruitment, especially with possible pressure on Jean‑Lambert this summer.

How do the players fit into the club’s project?

Santini relies on a fast, vertical game. Touho can exploit spaces created by full‑backs to penetrate the box, while Cartillier can support build‑up from midfield, providing both stability and creativity. Their three‑year contracts show the club’s intent to integrate them long‑term.

What is Rodez’s current context?

After a 0‑0 draw with Saint‑Étienne on 15 May 2026, Rodez remains 5th, 9 points behind leaders ESTAC Troyes. The recent form (DDWWW) indicates a confident side ready to solidify its position near the top. The two newcomers arrive at an opportune moment to push the club toward European spots.

What can be expected in the upcoming matches?

The next challenges include clashes with mid‑table teams where every point matters. If Touho converts his physical attributes into goals and Cartillier establishes himself as a reliable pivot, Rodez could turn its +6 differential into a genuine offensive threat. Fans are already eager for the first training sessions to gauge the impact of these signings.