FC Nantes Squad 2024/25
The 2024/25 season marks a significant chapter in FC Nantes’ illustrious history. Under the stewardship of President Waldemar Kita and the tactical acumen of Manager Antoine Kombouaré, the club aims to make a substantial impact in Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. The squad has undergone strategic enhancements, blending seasoned professionals with emerging talents to create a cohesive and competitive unit. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the team, categorized by positions, with detailed profiles of each player.
Goalkeepers
1. Alban Lafont
Alban Lafont, born on January 23, 1999, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, is a French goalkeeper renowned for his exceptional reflexes and command over the defensive line. He began his professional journey with Toulouse FC, making history as the youngest goalkeeper to debut in Ligue 1 at just 16 years old. In 2019, Lafont transferred to Fiorentina in Serie A for a reported fee of €8.5 million. Seeking more playing time, he returned to France on loan to FC Nantes in 2019, a move that became permanent in 2021 for an estimated €7 million. Lafont’s leadership qualities have been instrumental, often donning the captain’s armband and providing stability between the posts.
2. Patrik Carlgren
Swedish international Patrik Carlgren, born on January 8, 1992, in Falun, Sweden, is celebrated for his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure. He commenced his career with IK Brage before moving to AIK Stockholm, where he gained prominence. In 2018, Carlgren signed with Danish side Randers FC, contributing significantly to their defensive fortitude. In August 2024, seeking to bolster their goalkeeping department, FC Nantes acquired Carlgren on a free transfer. His wealth of experience adds depth and competition for the starting spot.
3. Hugo Barbet
Born on November 22, 2001, in Nantes, France, Hugo Barbet is a promising goalkeeper who progressed through the FC Nantes youth academy. Known for his agility and sharp reflexes, Barbet has been part of the senior squad since 2023. While primarily serving as a backup, his performances in training and cup matches have demonstrated his potential to become a future first-choice goalkeeper for the club.
Defenders
1. Jean-Kévin Duverne
Jean-Kévin Duverne, born on July 12, 1997, in Paris, France, is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and right-back. He began his professional career with RC Lens, where his defensive prowess caught the attention of top-tier clubs. In 2019, Duverne transferred to Stade Brestois 29 for a fee of approximately €2 million. His consistent performances earned him a move to FC Nantes in 2023, where he signed a four-year contract. Duverne’s speed and tactical awareness make him a valuable asset in the defensive lineup.
2. Nicolas Cozza
French defender Nicolas Cozza was born on January 8, 1999, in Montpellier, France. A product of Montpellier HSC‘s youth system, Cozza made his professional debut with the club in 2017. Primarily a left-back, he is also adept at playing as a central defender. In August 2024, Cozza joined FC Nantes on loan from VfL Wolfsburg, aiming to gain more first-team experience in Ligue 1. His defensive solidity and ability to support offensive plays add a new dimension to Nantes’ backline.
3. Nicolas Pallois
Veteran center-back Nicolas Pallois, born on September 19, 1987, in Elbeuf, France, is known for his robust defending and aerial dominance. His career spans several French clubs, including US Quevilly, Valenciennes FC, and Chamois Niortais FC. In 2014, Pallois moved to FC Girondins de Bordeaux before signing with FC Nantes in 2017. His experience and leadership have been pivotal in mentoring younger defenders and maintaining defensive organization.
4. Marcus Coco
Born on June 24, 1996, in Les Abymes, Guadeloupe, Marcus Coco is a dynamic player capable of operating as a right-back or winger. He began his professional journey with EA Guingamp, where his versatility and pace stood out. In 2019, Coco transferred to FC Nantes for a fee of around €3 million. Despite facing injury setbacks, his resilience and adaptability have made him a valuable squad member, providing options both defensively and offensively.
5. Fabien Centonze
Fabien Centonze, born on January 16, 1996, in Voiron, France, is a right-back renowned for his stamina and defensive acumen. His professional career took off at Clermont Foot, followed by a stint at RC Lens. In 2019, Centonze joined FC Metz, where his consistent performances attracted interest from larger clubs. FC Nantes secured his services in 2022 for a reported fee of €3 million. Centonze’s work rate and reliability have solidified his position as a regular starter.
6. Jean-Charles Castelletto
Cameroonian international Jean-Charles Castelletto was born on January 26, 1995, in Clamart, France. Starting his career at AJ Auxerre, he later played for Club Brugge KV and Red Star FC. In 2017, Castelletto signed with Stade Brestois 29, where his performances earned him a move to FC Nantes in 2020 on a free transfer. As a central defender, his strength and positional sense have been crucial for both club and country, representing Cameroon in major international tournaments.
7. Nathan Zézé
Promising young defender Nathan Zézé, born on June 18, 2005, in Nantes, France, is a product of the club’s renowned youth academy. His composed playing style, coupled with his ability to read the game, has seen him gradually integrated into the senior squad. Though still early in his professional journey, Zézé is seen as a future cornerstone of Nantes’ defense.
Midfielders
1. Pedro Chirivella
Spanish midfielder Pedro Chirivella, born on May 23, 1997, in Valencia, Spain, is an experienced deep-lying playmaker. He was part of Liverpool‘s youth system before moving permanently to FC Nantes in 2020. Chirivella’s vision, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the tempo make him indispensable in midfield.
2. Moussa Sissoko
Moussa Sissoko, a French international, was born on August 16, 1989, in Le Blanc-Mesnil, France. He has played for clubs such as Toulouse FC, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur before joining FC Nantes in 2022. Known for his physicality and ability to break up opposition attacks, Sissoko provides invaluable experience and leadership.
3. Samuel Moutoussamy
Samuel Moutoussamy, born on August 12, 1996, in Paris, France, represents the Democratic Republic of the Congo internationally. He joined Nantes from Lyon‘s academy in 2016 and has since developed into a versatile midfielder. His tireless work rate and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him a key asset.
4. Florent Mollet
French attacking midfielder Florent Mollet, born on November 19, 1991, in Fontaine-lès-Dijon, France, adds creativity to the squad. He previously played for Montpellier and Schalke 04 before moving to Nantes in 2023. Mollet’s technical ability and knack for scoring crucial goals bolster the team’s offensive play.
Forwards
1. Mostafa Mohamed
Egyptian striker Mostafa Mohamed, born on November 28, 1997, in Giza, Egypt, is a powerful and clinical forward. He initially joined FC Nantes on loan from Galatasaray in 2022 before making the move permanent in 2023. Mohamed’s physicality and ability to finish in tight spaces make him a focal point in attack.
2. Moses Simon
Nigerian winger Moses Simon, born on July 12, 1995, in Jos, Nigeria, is known for his blistering pace and dribbling skills. He previously played for KAA Gent and Levante before joining Nantes in 2019. Simon’s ability to create chances and score goals makes him a constant threat to defenders.
3. Ignatius Ganago
Cameroonian forward Ignatius Ganago, born on February 16, 1999, in Douala, Cameroon, is a dynamic attacker. He played for OGC Nice and RC Lens before joining Nantes in 2022. His versatility allows him to play across the front line, adding depth to the squad.
Conclusion
The FC Nantes Squad for the 2024/25 season presents a balanced mix of youth and experience. Each player brings unique qualities that contribute to the club’s ambition of competing at the highest level. With a strong defensive core, a midfield full of playmakers, and a lethal attack, Nantes is well-equipped to challenge for domestic and European success.