Mohamed Meïté: Five things to know about the hero of Rennes' victory over OL | OneFootball

At 17, the Rennes striker stunned OL in the dying moments and confirmed his meteoric rise in Ligue 1.

Mohamed Meïté / Stade Rennais 3-1 Lyon / Ligue 1

Mohamed Kader Meïté secured victory for Stade Rennais against Olympique Lyonnais this Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Roazhon Park. Coming off the bench in the 69th minute, he drew a red card, was involved in two goals, and netted the third himself.

Here are five key things to know about this young talent who is already making waves in the French top flight.

1. A pure product of the Parisian suburbs

Born in Créteil on October 11, 2007, to Ivorian parents, Mohamed Meïté grew up in Val-de-Marne. He played for several clubs in the Paris region, including CA Paris 14, Paris Alésia FC, US Villejuif, and FC Montrouge 92. In 2022, he joined the Stade Rennais academy, climbing the ranks all the way to the senior team.

2. A young striker with exceptional stature

Standing at around 1.93m, Meïté is a centre-forward and right-footed. His physical attributes make him a nightmare in duels, dominant in the air, and a force in all situations where strength matters. His coach, Habib Bèye, particularly values his ability to use his body: "He knows how to stay in the box and use his physique". This physical presence, combined with technical ability, makes him the archetype of the modern striker every club is after.

3. Breakthrough during the Breton derby

On November 5, 2024, Meïté signed his first professional contract with Rennes, tying him to the club for three and a half years, until June 2028. Just days later, the French-Ivorian made his Ligue 1 debut against Toulouse on November 10. With the arrival of Senegalese coach Habib Bèye, he became a regular part of the squad. On April 18, 2025, Meïté scored his first professional goal against FC Nantes. That crucial derby goal marked a turning point in his young career. He became the third youngest scorer at 17 years and 189 days in club history in Ligue 1, behind Camavinga and Doué.

4. A Gambardella hero

On May 24, 2025, Meïté delivered the Coupe Gambardella to Stade Rennais in the final against Dijon. He scored the winning goal in the 89th minute, sealing a fourth title for the club in the competition. This trophy further cemented his status among Rennes' brightest young prospects.

5. A standout performance against Lyon

Against OL, Meïté provoked Tyler Morton's sending off, was involved in Rémy Descamps' own goal, and scored Rennes' third in stoppage time. His display left a lasting impression, confirming his ability to shine when the stakes are highest.