PROFILE | Lorenz Assignon shines despite Rennes’ defensive frailties

Time rarely stands still in Stade Rennais and for their youth players this often means that with a bit of patience, a pathway into the first team will open up. The departure of former captain, Hamari Traoré, in the summer to Real Sociedad proved to be just that for Lorenz Assignon. 

It was only last year that Assignon fully broke into the starting lineup but already the club was willing to trust their young right-back with the future of the role. This was in part because of his performances near the end of the season when he was provided with an extended run in the team due to an injury to Traoré. 

The then-understudy took his opportunity to help Rennes secure qualification to the Europa League which proved to be crucial in convincing the club to trust in their young talent going forward. In doing so, Assignon became yet another name in a long and decorated list of players that have developed in Les Rouge et Noirs’ talent factory; an academy system consistently voted as one of the best in France.

Assignon needs to work on defensive weaknesses

His talent is plainly obvious when you watch him push high up the pitch with this intense attacking approach. His markers cling by his side in fear that they might lose him when his sudden turn of pace opens up the pitch. There is also a willingness to become an active part of Rennes’ progressions with his technical brilliance on the ball fundamental in helping the team develop tight passing triangles. 

However, there are downsides to his game, as he can look uncomfortable when asked to perform the less glamorous parts of his defensive role. His positioning can often leave the team exposed on the counter-attack, and his struggles with defending one-on-one means that he sometimes can provide limited protection. 

These issues should do little to dampen the high expectations that surround the fullback. For a player still growing and developing an increased role in the team will likely provide him with extra experience to address these problems. 

It appears a safe assumption that there will be increased interest from outside the club in the coming year, and Rennes may yet have a struggle on their hands to keep Assignon in their colours. Although perhaps by that time there will be another young player waiting for their pathway to open. 

GFFN | Nick Hartland