Mathys Silistrie, Brice Samba’s understudy, set for Rennes debut in Coupe de France | OneFootball

Mathys Silistrie, Brice Samba’s understudy at Rennes, is set to make his professional debut against Les Sables VF (N3) in the Coupe de France on Sunday, at Roazhon Park.

He has been the club’s number two since the summer following Steve Mandanda’s retirement, and signed his first professional deal in June to 2026 with a two-year option, L'Équipe reports.

Born in Drancy, he was spotted at Évreux at 13, as Mandanda and Samba were before him, then moved to Rennes in 2018 when his parents settled there to join the academy. He was born in 2005 and is from the same cohort as Désiré Doué, Mathys Tel and Jérémy Jacquet.

Head coach Habib Beye said on Friday it mattered that Silistrie’s progress and investment in training were recognised with a start at Roazhon Park, with the Coupe de France carrying weight in Rennes. He highlighted growth in personality and leadership, plus a strong left foot in build-up and notable courage.

Beye views his rise as among the biggest since bringing him into the group. He promoted him to number two because he felt he was ready, and said Sunday is not a gift but a decision based on that readiness. Beye added that Silistrie is prepared to step in as number one if needed, and is learning daily alongside a top goalkeeper.

Source: L'Équipe