Franco-Burkinabé Ismaëlo Ganiou impresses Lens, draws Adil Rami’s eye

Former France defender Adil Rami believes the 21‑year‑old Franco‑Burkinabé Ismaëlo Ganiou, who has broken into the RC Lens first‑team, is on the brink of a Bleus call‑up after four Ligue 1 appearances and a debut goal in the top flight this season.

Ganiou, 21, has featured in four league matches for Lens this campaign, finding the net once and drawing attention for his composure on the ball.

Rami likens the young defender to Jules Koundé at the start of his Ligue 1 career, saying, “You could say he’s a Swiss‑army‑knife. He reminds me a little of Koundé at his Ligue 1 debut.”

Versatility and development

He can operate on either flank or centrally, Rami adds, noting Ganiou’s confidence, excellent reading of play, precise distribution and abundant grit.

The former international also points out that Ganiou sometimes holds the ball too long and takes his time, suggesting he could play more quickly, though he remains strong in duels.

Already capped at French youth level, the Lens defender could earn his first senior Bleus cap in the coming months if his progress continues.