Zidane hails Rennes academy as France's own Masia alternative
In a bright morning at the Piverdière training ground, Zinédine Zidane singled out Stade Rennais’ academy, insisting its graduates deserve a place beside the world‑renowned La Masia. He noted that the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Eduardo Camavinga and Désiré Doué, all products of the same system, have already worn the France shirt, having moved on to clubs such as FC Barcelona.
Rennes' philosophy differs from Barcelona
Former academy director Landry Chauvin told that Rennes has never tried to copy the Catalan model. “The three predestined were Doué, Dembélé and Camavinga. The others have gone to find it through work,” he explained, underscoring a belief in individual development rather than a uniform playing identity. This stance, he said, reflects the club’s aim to let the best players play, not to impose a single tactical blueprint.
Three graduates now in the France squad
The three names Chauvin highlighted have each followed a distinct trajectory. Ousmane Dembélé rose to become one of the most important French forwards of his generation before spells in Germany, FC Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain. Eduardo Camavinga left Rennes as a teenager for Real Madrid and quickly established himself at the highest level. Désiré Doué, after his stint at Stade Rennais, also joined Paris Saint‑Germain and emerged as one of the most watched young talents in French football.
Zinédine Zidane admits a stronger emotion than in 1994 ahead of France
Chauvin added that seven players who have represented France either are currently at or have passed through the Stade Rennais academy. This figure illustrates the Breton club’s capacity to nurture talent capable of reaching the senior national team, reinforcing its reputation among French training centres.
While the success of Dembélé, Camavinga and Doué showcases the diversity of styles, positions and personalities the centre produces, the club does not seek to become a replica of La Masia. “No, the Piverdière is not La Masia. They have a common playing identity. We, our objective has always been to let the best players play,” Chauvin said, highlighting a philosophy that values flexibility and personal growth.
The continued emphasis on individual excellence makes the academy a cornerstone of Stade Rennais’ broader project to regain a regular place among France’s elite clubs. Zinédine Zidane’s public endorsement adds weight to the narrative, signalling that the Piverdière’s output is recognised at the highest level of the game.