Sidibé’s Le Mans debut lasts 43 seconds before a red card

Djibril Sidibé’s start with Le Mans couldn’t have been more bitter: the World Cup winner was introduced in Rennes–Le Mans (2-3) and lasted just 43 seconds before being sent off for dangerous play on Estéban Lepaul, according to L’Équipe.

Debut ends in seconds

The key change came in the 68th minute. Lucas Calodat was replaced by Sidibé, who was then deployed on the right side. On his first action, he arrived too late to a challenge and ended up clipping Lepaul in the midfield.

Lepaul himself said the contact would inevitably cause “damage,” but that the defender “didn’t mean it,” as reported by L’Équipe.

Videira plays it down

Romain Lissorgue showed the straight red, and L’Équipe notes that it sparked confusion around the incident. Still, Le Mans’ coach Patrick Videira refused to throw blame at the player or the referee. He argued that it was unfortunate for Sidibé’s first minutes, but that the side did not lose because of him, and that these are match moments you have to accept.

The wider game also featured another injury blow for Rennes. In the 77th minute, Nicolas Kocik had to be replaced after hurting his ankle in a clash with Arnaud Nordin and left the stadium using crutches. Videira said they expect to know the length of the layoff in the next 48 hours, per L’Équipe.