Haise shields his signings while data exposes their shortcomings

Stade Rennais manager Franck Haise insists he will not rush Eliezer Mayenda and Issa Soumaré into the spotlight before the club faces Strasbourg, yet DataScout figures underline the pair’s ongoing offensive struggles as the French side contemplate a tactical shift.

Haise shields his new signings

Haise has refused to “accuse” Mayenda and Soumaré ahead of the Strasbourg game, preferring to protect their confidence. He told Ouest‑France, “He trains well, is invested and I know a breakthrough will come.” The manager’s faith remains despite limited impact.

Mayenda arrived from Sunderland this summer and has featured in five Ligue 1 matches, averaging thirty minutes per appearance. The twenty‑one‑year‑old has yet to register a goal or an assist, but Haise believes his daily work will eventually pay off.

Soumaré, a former Havre player, has taken part in six Ligue 1 games, averaging sixty‑four minutes and providing one assist. He has not found the net, but his physical output has drawn attention.

DataScout highlights offensive woes

DataScout rates Mayenda as a high‑intensity forward: eighty‑six progressive runs, seventy‑three offensive duels won and sixty‑eight successful dribbles, yet his production in the final third remains negligible. Haise suggests he may suit a two‑striker set‑up alongside Boulaye Dia.

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For Soumaré, the platform records eighty‑nine high‑intensity runs and a work‑rate index of sixty‑six. His technical output is modest – six dribbles and twenty‑one passes into the final third – prompting Haise to admit, “They still need to work, progress and give more.”

The club’s tactical future could hinge on a 3‑5‑2 system, a formation used in the 2‑2 draw with Juventus in the Europa League after a goalless stalemate in Turin. Haise is considering retaining the five‑man defence for the Sunday clash at Roazhon Park against Strasbourg.

Esteban Lepaul’s ankle sprain leaves a vacancy on the wing, and Haise is waiting day‑by‑day for his return. The injury may give Mayenda a chance to start, though competition for the two attacking roles will stay fierce.

The contrast between Haise’s protective approach and the stark statistical picture underscores the challenge of turning potential into performance as Stade Rennais prepares for its next European test.