Academy product tied down until 2030
RC Lens have locked down one of their prized assets. Ismaelo Ganiou has signed a new deal through 2030. The 21-year-old defender, developed at La Gaillette and at the club since he was 10, has committed for another two seasons. The announcement was made in front of the Bollaert crowd, alongside Gael Kakuta, another graduate of the Lens academy.
Last season confirmed his rise. Twenty-nine appearances, a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and a Coupe de France title. In a matter of months, the Under-21 international went from prospect to trusted starter.
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Sporting director delighted
Jean-Louis Leca did not hide his satisfaction. “Ismaelo’s extension shows the mutual attachment between Racing and an academy kid,” said the sporting director. He praised his “rapid progress”, saying Ganiou had gone “from promising youngster to key figure in the Coupe de France win.”
The backdrop gives the deal extra bite. Lens are back in the Champions League this season. Keeping hold of a sought-after defender sends a clear message. The club would rather build around its own talent than watch it walk out the door.
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