Ligue 1: Surprise, Nampalys Mendy Starts for Lens Against OM

This Saturday, March 8, 2025, Nampalys Mendy made his grand return to the Ligue 1 pitches during the clash between Olympique de Marseille and RC Lens. A surprising event after the Senegalese defensive midfielder's long stint on the bench.

The Lens team was welcomed tonight at the Orange Vélodrome by Olympique Marseille. For this duel against the current runner-up in the French elite, Will Still called upon Nampalys Mendy. While surprise was still in the air, the Belgian coach unexpectedly included the Senegalese in the starting eleven. A surprising start for the 30-year-old midfielder who hadn't set foot on a Ligue 1 pitch in 140 days.

Before this match, the last appearance of the Senegalese international in the Sang et Or colors was on October 19, 2024, against Saint-Etienne during the 8th day of Ligue 1. During this long absence, Nampalys Mendy was considered shelved, as he was not injured. During the winter transfer window, the former Leicester City midfielder was rumored to be leaving and close to joining Stade Rennais. More recently, he was mentioned in the plans of a MLS club. Is Nampalys Mendy's return to the Lens squad temporary or permanent? Stay tuned...

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.