The Stade Rennais has made a decisive move in its summer squad reshuffle, with manager Franck Haise finalising a high-profile defensive reinforcement that caught supporters off guard. The arrival of American right-back Bryan Reynolds marks the conclusion of a transfer saga that had initially captured the imagination of Breton fans.
Reynolds arrives as Kaboré’s path closes
The defensive framework of the Rouge et Noir is gradually taking shape. The Rennes hierarchy has secured a modern, dynamic profile to strengthen their flanks by bringing in Reynolds, a deal now officially confirmed. This acquisition has had an immediate knock-on effect, effectively shutting the door on Burkina Faso international Issa Kaboré’s potential move to the club.
The club’s recruitment team had been closely monitoring the 25-year-old defender, who is owned by Manchester City. After an impressive loan spell in England with Wrexham, where he established himself as a key player with 32 official appearances and eight assists—highlighting his counter-attacking prowess—the Burkinabè’s future now looks uncertain.
Kaboré’s Ligue 1 experience falls short of Haise’s vision
For Franck Haise, Kaboré was once considered a potential fallback option. Having previously played for Olympique de Marseille during the 2022-2023 season, the Bobo-Dioulasso native brought valuable experience of Ligue 1’s physical and tactical demands. Despite an unfinished chapter in Marseille, his steady progression in England had made him a compelling prospect in Rennes’ eyes.
Returning to Manchester City this summer, Kaboré is aware he ranks outside the club’s long-term plans. With his contract running until June 2027 and a Transfermarkt valuation of around €4 million, the defender offered an attractive price-to-quality ratio for Rennes’ budget. However, the club ultimately opted for Reynolds, forcing the technical staff to revisit their backup strategies.
Could Troyes be Kaboré’s next destination?
Now sidelined from Stade Rennais’ plans, Issa Kaboré is unlikely to struggle to find suitors. Manchester City, open to either a permanent transfer or another paid loan to facilitate his departure, are prepared to explore options.
Rumors suggest an unexpected opportunity may emerge in France, with ESTAC Troyes reportedly expressing interest in the former Marseille player. The project in Troyes could provide the right-back with a fresh start in a competitive environment where he could secure significant playing time for the 2026-2027 season.