Originally from Hilversum, about thirty kilometers east of Amsterdam, Azor Matusiva joined the Dutch training elite at the age of 15. After playing just one match with the A white and red, he went on to seek playing time for half a season at VBV De Graafschap before signing up for four years with FC Groningen. Scrutinized by many observers, including the Stade de Reims, it leaves its original cocoon and joins Champagne in the summer of 2021.
Azore quickly established himself with his new team, showcasing his fighting qualities from his first match in a 2–0 win over Stade Rennais FC on 12 September 2021 at Rozon Park. The months that followed only confirmed his strong potential, with Delaunay’s supporters searching for a complete midfielder, generous in effort with his ability to organize the team’s play, becoming the focal point of Will’s system still. If he conquered the Stade de Reims, it was also through his personality and his recognized exuberance, making him a much-appreciated friend of the locker room. His broad smile displayed at La Piverdiere during his signing confirmed the words.
Degemer fellow Azor!
Azor Matusiva:
“I am very proud to join Stade Rennais, I am coming to a great club. I will give everything for the team and make sure the club climbs the rankings. I thought about it a lot because it’s not easy to leave a team in the middle of the season. I only see the positives, Stade Rennais has a lot of ambitions. I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere of Rosen Park with my new jersey. Every player wants to progress and I think Stade Rennais is the perfect club to help me develop. I arrive on the second day of a big match for the team, I am very happy. I am a player who always gives everything, who thinks for the team first. »
Olivier Clorac, Executive Chairman – Managing Director:
“We were looking for a player with high potential and significant experience. Big opportunities are rare during the winter transfer window, even more so when we target senior players at their clubs. This is still a testament to the attractiveness of the Rennes Sporting project and its ambitions. At the age of 25, Azor Matusiva has played 75 Ligue 1 matches and his arrival has allowed us to strengthen our midfield. He is an intelligent, loving and committed boy who should join our team quickly. I am particularly pleased that he is joining us this winter and that he is making a long-term commitment. »
Florian Morris, Technical Director:
“The winter market is tough but there can be good opportunities and the Azores is one of them. He has been able to show all his virtues with Reams since his arrival. He fulfills many criteria, which suit the SRFC game: great activity, very good technical expertise, combined with tactical intelligence. In addition, it has a very strong collective spirit, which fits perfectly with what we are looking for today. With the Coupe de France, the Championship and Europe, we will have a busy schedule. His arrival allows us to strengthen our midfield with the aim of having a strong second half of the season. »
