FC Nantes Midfielders 2024/25

The 2024/25 season has been a transformative period for FC Nantes, especially within the midfield department. The club has strategically bolstered its midfield lineup, blending seasoned professionals with emerging talents to enhance both defensive solidity and creative prowess. This article provides an in-depth look at each midfielder, detailing their backgrounds, career trajectories, and contributions to the team.

1. Pedro Chirivella

Pedro Chirivella, born on May 23, 1997, in Valencia, Spain, serves as a central figure in FC Nantes’ midfield. His journey began in the youth ranks of Valencia CF before he transitioned to Liverpool FC‘s academy in 2013. During his tenure with Liverpool, Chirivella gained experience through loan spells at clubs such as Go Ahead Eagles, Willem II, and Extremadura UD. In the summer of 2020, seeking regular first-team football, he made a free transfer to FC Nantes. Since his arrival, Chirivella has been instrumental in orchestrating play from the center, utilizing his vision and passing accuracy to dictate the tempo and link defense with attack.

2. Douglas Augusto

Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Douglas Augusto was born on January 13, 1997. He began his professional career with Fluminense FC, showcasing his potential as a dynamic midfielder. In 2017, he moved to Corinthians, one of Brazil’s most prestigious clubs, further honing his skills. Seeking opportunities abroad, Augusto signed with PAOK FC in Greece in 2019, where he played a pivotal role in their midfield over several seasons. In August 2023, FC Nantes secured his services for a transfer fee of €3 million. Augusto’s blend of defensive tenacity and forward thrust has added a new dimension to Nantes’ midfield, making him a vital cog in both defensive setups and offensive transitions.

3. Florent Mollet

Florent Mollet, born on November 19, 1991, in Fontaine-lès-Dijon, France, brings a wealth of experience to FC Nantes’ midfield. His professional journey commenced with Dijon FCO, where he made his Ligue 1 debut. Mollet’s career includes notable stints at FC Metz and Montpellier HSC, where he established himself as a reliable attacking midfielder known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability. In January 2023, he transferred to FC Schalke 04 in Germany but returned to France shortly after, joining FC Nantes in July 2023 for a fee of €1.5 million. Mollet’s vision, set-piece proficiency, and knack for finding pockets of space have been invaluable assets to the team’s offensive strategies.

4. Johann Lepenant

Born on October 22, 2002, in Granville, France, Johann Lepenant is among the promising young talents in FC Nantes’ squad. He developed through the youth system at SM Caen, making his professional debut with the club in Ligue 2. His performances caught the attention of Olympique Lyonnais, who signed him in 2022. After gaining valuable experience in Lyon, Lepenant made a move to FC Nantes in August 2024 for a transfer fee of €7 million. Primarily operating as a defensive midfielder, his composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and ability to break up opposition play have made him a key figure in shielding the defense and initiating attacks.

5. Jean-Philippe Gbamin

Jean-Philippe Gbamin, born on September 25, 1995, in San Pédro, Ivory Coast, offers versatility to FC Nantes’ midfield and defense. He began his professional career with RC Lens in France before transferring to 1. FSV Mainz 05 in Germany’s Bundesliga in 2016. His impressive performances as a defensive midfielder and center-back led to a move to Everton FC in the English Premier League in 2019 for a substantial fee. However, injuries limited his impact, prompting loan spells to CSKA Moscow and Trabzonspor. In July 2024, Gbamin joined FC Nantes on a free transfer. His physical presence, defensive acumen, and ability to play multiple roles provide the team with tactical flexibility and depth.

6. Sorba Thomas

Sorba Thomas, born on January 25, 1999, in London, England, is a dynamic winger who adds flair to FC Nantes’ midfield. He began his career at Boreham Wood FC in the National League, England’s fifth tier, where his performances earned him a move to Huddersfield Town in the Championship in January 2021. Thomas quickly adapted to the higher level, becoming a key player for Huddersfield with his pace and crossing ability. In July 2024, FC Nantes signed him for a transfer fee of €2 million. Eligible to represent Wales internationally, Thomas brings creativity, speed, and a direct approach to Nantes’ attacking play, often stretching defenses and providing quality service from wide areas.

7. Louis Leroux

A product of FC Nantes’ esteemed youth academy, Louis Leroux was born on January 23, 2006, in Nantes, France. Despite his young age, Leroux has demonstrated maturity beyond his years, earning promotion to the first team in the 2024/25 season. Primarily playing as a central midfielder, his technical skills, vision, and work ethic have impressed both coaches and fans. While he is still in the early stages of his professional career, Leroux’s potential suggests a bright future ahead, and he is expected to develop into a cornerstone of the club’s midfield in the coming years.

8. Dehmaine Assoumani

Dehmaine Assoumani, born on April 17, 2005, in France, is another emerging talent from FC Nantes’ youth setup. Operating mainly as an attacking midfielder, Assoumani possesses a keen eye for goal and the ability to unlock defenses with his dribbling and passing. He was integrated into the senior squad during the 2024/25 season, reflecting the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. As he continues to gain experience and adapt to the demands of professional football, Assoumani has the potential to become a key creative force for FC Nantes in the coming years. His technical skills, agility, and ability to play between the lines make him a promising prospect. Under the guidance of experienced midfielders in the squad, he is expected to grow into a well-rounded playmaker, capable of influencing games with his vision and goal-scoring ability.

Conclusion

The midfield unit of FC Nantes for the 2024/25 season presents a compelling mix of experience, youth, and versatility. Players like Pedro Chirivella and Florent Mollet bring stability and leadership, while emerging talents such as Louis Leroux and Dehmaine Assoumani signal a bright future for the club. The additions of Johann Lepenant, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Douglas Augusto, and Sorba Thomas have further strengthened the squad, ensuring that Nantes has a dynamic and competitive midfield capable of adapting to different tactical approaches. With a blend of defensive solidity, creative ingenuity, and attacking impetus, FC Nantes’ midfield is well-equipped to handle the challenges of the season. Whether in Ligue 1, domestic cup competitions, or European contests, these players will play a crucial role in determining the club’s success. As the season unfolds, their performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as they seek to drive the Canaries to new heights