Maxime Dupé has completed a move back to FC Nantes, the club confirmed on Wednesday. The 33-year-old goalkeeper joins Nantes as a free agent after two seasons with OGC Nice, signing a contract that runs until 2028 with an additional optional year.
Dupé began his professional career with Nantes in 2012, establishing himself as a key player before departing for Toulouse in 2020. He spent three seasons with Toulouse, becoming a consistent performer in Ligue 1, before moving to Nice in 2022. However, at Nice, Dupé primarily served as a backup to Yehvann Diouf, making limited appearances.
This return to Nantes addresses a significant need for the club following the departure of Anthony Lopes to Angers. Lopes had been Nantes’ first-choice goalkeeper for the past 18 months, and his exit left a void that Dupé is expected to fill. Nantes were recently relegated to Ligue 2, and the signing of an experienced goalkeeper like Dupé signals their ambition to secure an immediate return to the top flight.
Nantes finished 17th in Ligue 1 last season, triggering their relegation. The club is undergoing a period of rebuilding following a disappointing campaign, and Dupé’s familiarity with the club and the league is seen as a valuable asset. His experience and leadership qualities are expected to be important both on and off the pitch as Nantes aim to navigate the challenges of Ligue 2 and mount a promotion push. The move provides Dupé with the opportunity to reclaim a starting role and contribute to his boyhood club’s success.
