In Rennes, one Ugochukwu can hide another. Launched in Ligue 1 in 2023 and regularly selected by Bruno Genesio, Lesley Ugochukwu quickly made a name for himself in midfield before leaving for Chelsea and England after 60 appearances with the first team. Now established in Burnley's midfield, the 2004 generation Bleuet sees his brother, four years his junior, following in his footsteps. On Tuesday, Chibuike Ugochukwu reached a special milestone by signing his first professional contract. It is also a symbolic milestone for a player born in Rennes who has played for the Rouge et Noir since the age of seven.
A 1.95-metre defensive midfielder who can also play as a centre-back, Chibuike, who plays for France's U16 team, was part of the squad that won the Gambardella Cup in 2025. A key player in the U19s, the Rennes player also made his debut in the N3. Described by Denis Arnaud, director of the Rouge et Noir Academy, as a ‘quiet force’, Chibuike combines physical and technical abilities. ‘His size is a strength, especially as he combines this asset with real qualities on the ball, including an ability to play forward and intelligence in his play.’
A few days after Elias Legendre Quiñonez and Ruben Lomet, Chibuike Ugochukwu is the third player from the 2008 generation to sign a professional contract.
Denis Arnaud, Director of Academie :
« Chibuike has what it takes to succeed at the highest level. He has all the right ingredients: personality, education, athletic ability... He is a respectful young man who embodies the values of Stade Rennais F.C.: humility, hard work and ambition. In difficult moments during matches, he remains calm and focused. This signing also highlights the quality of the club's training programme, starting with its football academy. Now mature, he benefits from his brother's experience, although it is important to differentiate between the two. He is also a player with a strong mental attitude. »
Chibuike Ugochukwu :
«I feel a lot of joy and pride. It's a powerful emotion to sign professionally with the club that trained me. I'm very grateful and happy to still be part of the Rouge et Noir family. My dream is obviously to play in Ligue 1, and I'll give 100% to achieve that goal. My brother? He is a real source of inspiration for me. He often writes to me to encourage me and give me advice. »
