Lopes revives career as Canaris' new shot‑stopper in Ligue 1

Thirty‑five‑year‑old Anthony Lopes left relegated FC Nantes on a free transfer and signed for Angers, aiming to relaunch his career in Ligue 1. The Portuguese keeper, who departed after a difficult season that ended in demotion, quickly became a central figure for the Canaris.

Early impact in Ligue 1

After five matchdays, Lopes has recorded 26 saves, the highest total in the division at this stage. He kept clean sheets against Le Havre and Troyes and, 1 data, prevented 3.5 goals, placing him among the league’s most efficient shot‑stoppers.

His performance at Le Havre was particularly decisive, as his interventions helped the SCO secure a draw. Teammates and supporters note that his experience and temperament already provide real security to the side.

Contrast with his Nantes spell

At Nantes, Lopes could not stop the club’s relegation to Ligue 2, despite his personal quality. He joined Angers in January 2025 after several years at Olympique Lyonnais, a move that many interpreted as a disavowal of his former team.

FC Nantes face Stade de Reims without Corredor in starting line-up

For FC Nantes, now competing in Ligue 2, watching Lopes excel in the top flight serves as a stark reminder of what they have lost. The Canaris, who finished the 2025‑2026 season with Hervé Koffi’s record 123 saves, expected a high standard from their new goalkeeper.

Lopes inherited a role previously held by the Burkinabe keeper, who was among the five nominees for the UNFP awards. The expectation was high, but the Portuguese has already responded positively.

It remains too early for a definitive verdict after only five games, yet the start of his Angers tenure appears promising. Observers caution that a larger sample size is needed before drawing firm conclusions.

Meanwhile, at FC Nantes, Maxime Dupé struggles to cement his place, with Patrik Carlgren looming as a threat ahead of the Saturday 14h clash at the Stade de Reims.