Didier Santini is set to overhaul his team for Friday's clash with Nancy. The Rodez AF manager is considering up to six changes to his starting lineup compared to the side that lost to Grenoble (0-1).
Goalkeeper Lucas Margueron is expected to make way for Enzo Crombez. The latter, formerly of Amiens, hasn't played in Ligue 2 for two and a half years. This switch may only be temporary, with first-choice Quentin Braat still sidelined with a calf injury. His return is hoped for after the international break.
In defence, Steven Luyambula could make his first start for the club. On the left flank, Evan's Jean-Lambert Jean-Lambert is anticipated. The attack will be completely refreshed, with Nachon Nsingi and Mathis Touho, who is seeking his first goal for the club, tipped to start. Mathis Saka could also return to the starting eleven, displacing Damjan Pavlovic in midfield.
These adjustments address a lack of collective cohesion seen in recent weeks. "I hope to see better choreography, better coordination," Santini stated. The coach praised his players' defensive bravery against Grenoble but remains dissatisfied with the offensive output, marked by a lack of precision in the final pass. This dissatisfaction is all the greater as the team, after a good start, has suffered two consecutive defeats and is now winless in three matches, a run that has seen them slide to 11th place.
The summer transfer window, less turbulent than previous ones, hasn't helped establish a clear attacking hierarchy following the departure of Ibrahima Baldé. Yet, Baldé remains the season's top scorer with five goals in four appearances. Rodez currently sits 11th in the league table with seven points, a record reflecting an average of 1.75 points per game. The target for this match is clear: to score more goals. The team is aiming to play 90 high-level minutes and score at least two goals to secure the three points. The upcoming fixtures will be key to turn things around after two consecutive losses. The team worked on its coordination this week ahead of hosting Nancy, who are tenth in the standings.
Background and full detail: Centre Presse Aveyron
