Rennes predicted XI v Lille: Jota to start in Jorge Sampaoli’s first game | OneFootball

There are many uncertainties surrounding Stade Rennais’ line-up with Jorge Sampaoli set to name his first XI when they face Lille OSC on Sunday.

L’Équipe understands that Sampaoli will go for an attacking line-up with two players notably starting in unfamiliar positions. Baptiste Santamaria may start at the heart of a back three for Rennes, with Ludovic Blas potentially dropping into the midfield in what would be a very attacking line-up. Azor Matusiwa will provide balance in that double pivot.

That will leave room for Jota, Arnaud Kalimuendo and Albert Gronbaek all to start in the attack. Adrien Truffert, out with suspension, is the only major absentee for Rennes. Youngster Mahamadou Nagida may start in his place with Sampaoli expected to deploy wing-backs.

Rennes likely line-up v Lille

Steve Mandanda; Mikhail Faye, Baptiste Santamaria, Alidu Seidu; Mahamadou Nagida, Azor Matusiwa, Ludovic Blas, Lorenz Assignon; Jota, Arnaud Kalimuendo, Albert Gronbaek. (L’Éq)

GFFN | Luke Entwistle