Alban Lafont may leave FC Nantes this summer, according to manager Michel Der Zakarian, following his return from international duty with Côte d'Ivoire. The 27-year-old goalkeeper rejoined Nantes training on Wednesday after featuring in the World Cup, where his nation was eliminated in the round of 16. Der Zakarian stated in a press conference that Maxime Dupé, who arrived from Nice this summer, is currently his first-choice goalkeeper.
Lafont arrived at Nantes in 2021 and has made 198 appearances for the club across all competitions. However, he spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Panathinaikos, where he featured prominently, playing 37 matches in all competitions. Despite his consistent playing time in Greece, Panathinaikos did not exercise their option to make the move permanent. Lafont remains under contract with Nantes until 2027.
Der Zakarian emphasized Dupé’s position as the number one, stating, “He (Lafont) is here with us today, it’s up to him to work. He was at the World Cup, he came back quickly, he wanted to work. The priority today is Max (Dupé), it’s not Alban (Lafont).” When pressed on the possibility of Lafont leaving, Der Zakarian confirmed it was a likely scenario, adding that if Lafont remains, he will train with the squad and his future will be reassessed.
The situation suggests Nantes are open to offers for Lafont, despite his existing contract. The arrival of Dupé, a 33-year-old with experience in Ligue 1, has seemingly altered the goalkeeping dynamic at the club. Lafont’s departure would free up wages and potentially allow him to secure regular first-team football elsewhere. This move could allow Nantes to further solidify their squad depth ahead of the upcoming season.
