Seko Fofana will return to Stade Rennais at the end of the season, FC Porto have confirmed. The Ivorian midfielder’s loan deal with the Portuguese club has been terminated early, effective immediately. Fofana joined Porto in February as part of a temporary move from Rennes.
Fofana rediscovered his form during his time in Portugal, becoming a key player for Sérgio Conceição’s side. He featured in 18 matches for Porto, scoring three goals and providing one assist, and was a part of the team that secured the Portuguese Primeira Liga title. However, he had fallen out of favour with Rennes coach Habib Beye prior to the loan spell.
The return to Brittany will see Fofana reunite with former RC Lens manager Franck Haise, who recently took charge at Rennes. Rennes officials will meet with the player upon his return from international duty with the Ivory Coast at the World Cup to discuss his future at the club. The move represents a change of plans for both clubs, with Porto clearly having anticipated a longer loan period.
Fofana previously played for Udinese and Manchester City during his career, before joining Lens in 2020. He became a key figure in the Lens midfield, attracting attention from several clubs before ultimately moving to Rennes. His performances for Porto suggest he has regained the form that made him a sought-after player, and it remains to be seen how Haise intends to integrate him into his plans for the upcoming season. This early return could open up possibilities for Rennes to reshape their midfield options ahead of the new campaign.
