FC Nantes outlines €30 m rebuild plan and player exits after Ligue 2 relegation

Following its relegation to Ligue 2, FC Nantes announced a €30 million budget for the upcoming season, emphasising recruitment of players familiar with French second‑division football. General manager Franck Kita used a press conference to take full responsibility for the club’s drop, stating “I am the boss, I am the one to blame,” and dismissed rumours of a sale by the Kita family, signalling his role as the primary decision‑maker while owner Waldemar Kita remains less visible.

Michel Der Zakarian was confirmed for his third spell as head coach, with the club’s immediate aim to secure promotion back to Ligue 1. The summer transfer window saw the arrivals of Wilitty Younoussa and Maxime Dupé, while several departures are expected. Midfielder Johann Lepenant, under contract until 2029, has attracted interest from FC Lorient, which is preparing a bid reportedly around €7 million to generate liquidity for the rebuild.