Charlie Cresswell sets no limits for Rennes in Europa League

Stade Rennais defender Charlie Cresswell says his side can win the Europa League, speaking ahead of their key fixture against Juventus.

Charlie Cresswell says Stade Rennais have no limits in the UEFA Europa League this season. The English defender, on loan from Toulouse, made the bold claim ahead of his side's key match against Juventus in Turin.

Cresswell outlined the Breton club's ambitions in an interview. "There are no limits," he said. "It would be stupid to put limits on ourselves. We can say we can win it."

He pointed to the quality within the squad as the reason for his confidence. "We have such a good team here, good staff," Cresswell added. "Yeah, it'd be stupid to put limits on ourselves."

Rennes are unbeaten in the competition so far, with one win and one draw giving them four points from their opening two fixtures. The 23-year-old centre-back is experiencing European football for the first time in his career after joining Rennes on an initial loan deal this summer. The move includes an obligation for the French club to make the transfer permanent next year for a fee rising to €22.5 million.

Cresswell left Leeds United in 2024 to join Toulouse, where he became a regular starter, before this latest step to a club with consistent European aspirations. He explained that the expectation to win games at Rennes was a key factor in his decision, viewing it as essential for his development and his long-term dream of playing for the England senior team.

"I'm here to work and I'm here to win," Cresswell stated, dismissing any notion of a rushed return to English football. He emphasised focusing on the immediate challenge rather than distant targets.

That immediate challenge is a formidable one, as Rennes face Juventus in a marquee Europa League group stage clash. A positive result in Italy would significantly boost their prospects of advancing to the knockout rounds. For Cresswell, strong performances on such a stage are seen as the best way to catch the eye of the England selectors.

The defender also highlighted the importance of the upcoming match for the club's momentum. He noted that competing against a team of Juventus's stature is exactly the type of challenge Rennes must embrace to prove their credentials. Cresswell believes the squad's unity and tactical preparation under their coaching staff provide a solid foundation for such high-pressure fixtures.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Cresswell acknowledged the significant step up in moving to a club like Rennes, which regularly competes in European tournaments. He described the atmosphere at the Roazhon Park on European nights as a major motivation and a factor that drives the team to exceed expectations. The defender is determined to make the most of this opportunity to develop his game against top continental opposition.

Cresswell's comments come at a key time in Rennes' European campaign, where every point is vital for securing a place in the next round. The team's performance against Juventus will be a key indicator of their potential to advance deep into the tournament, aligning with Cresswell's belief that they can go all the way.

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