Mandanda's visit lifts Thauvin's spirits at RC Lens

Steve Mandanda paid a surprise visit to Florian Thauvin at RC Lens on 7 October 2026, reuniting two former Olympique Marseille teammates who lifted the Coupe du monde with the France Bleus in 2018. The former goalkeeper, who retired in September 2025 at age 40 after a final season with Rennes, spent time with the club’s captain.

Mandanda keeps watch on former teammates

Mandanda, who retired in September 2025, says he still follows the careers of his old Marseille colleagues. His trip to Lens was described as a ‘beautiful reunion’ between the two 2018 World Cup winners. The former goalkeeper’s presence highlighted the strong bond that survived the players’ moves to different clubs.

Thauvin’s captaincy at Lens

Florian Thauvin joined RC Lens in the summer of 2025 after leaving Marseille. He quickly became a senior figure in the dressing‑room and now wears the captain’s armband. The visit clearly delighted him, with the striker expressing happiness at seeing his long‑time partner in the club’s red and gold colours.

Before hanging up his gloves, Mandanda had been linked with a move to Lens following the departure of Brice Samba. He officially announced his retirement in September 2025 at the age of 40, after completing his final season with Rennes.

The meeting was shared on social media by the club’s official account, accompanied by the hashtags #RCLens #SangEtOr and a link to the video. Supporters praised the reunion, noting how the two former Marseille stars continue to support each other off the pitch.