Franck Haise Takes the Helm at Stade Rennais

Franck Armel Gérard Haise, a French professional football manager and former player, has been appointed as the new head coach of Ligue 1 club Rennes as of February 18, 2026. The 54-year-old has signed a contract with the club that extends until 2027.

A Return to Familiar Territory

Haise is no stranger to Stade Rennais, having previously served as a coach at the SRFC Academy between 2006 and 2012. He was notably named Ligue 1 Coach of the Year in 2023. His journey in football began as a player, featuring for Rouen, Laval, and Angers as a defender before transitioning to coaching.

Managerial Career Highlights

Haise’s managerial career began at Stade Mayennais, where he balanced playing and coaching duties before fully committing to coaching at age 32. He then spent time at Stade Rennais F.C., followed by roles at Lorient and RC Lens.

At RC Lens, Haise first managed the reserve team before taking charge of the first team in Ligue 2 in February 2020. He led the team to promotion to Ligue 1 and secured a seventh-place finish in their return season. The 2022/2023 season saw Lens challenge PSG for the league title, marking a period of significant success for Haise.

Rennes’ Recent Performance and Haise’s Debut

Haise’s appointment follows the dismissal of Habib Beye. Sébastien Tambouret served as interim manager, achieving a notable 3-1 victory against Paris Saint-Germain. Haise’s debut as Rennes manager was a successful one, with his team securing a comfortable 3-0 win over AJ Auxerre on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Mahdi Camara scored twice, while Esteban Lepaul also found the net.

Looking Ahead

With Haise at the helm, Rennes currently sits in fifth place in Ligue 1 and aims to secure qualification for a European Cup. The club’s president, Arnaud Pouille, has emphasized the goals of providing entertaining football, developing young talent, and achieving European qualification.