‘Leaving England is scary but I’m here to win’: Charlie Cresswell on Ligue 1 life and his international dream

Rennes defender Charlie Cresswell spoke about his successful transition to French football and his ambition to earn a senior England call-up. Cresswell joined Toulouse in 2024 after struggling for regular playing time at Leeds United before completing a summer transfer to Rennes. The 24-year-old center-back explained that leaving English football was daunting, but playing regularly in Ligue 1 and competing in European competition has significantly advanced his professional development.

Cresswell is currently preparing for what he describes as the biggest game of his career against Juventus in the Europa League. He noted that other English players excelling across continental leagues provide strong motivation for his own senior international aspirations. Cresswell also praised his teammate Esteban Lepaul, likening the Ligue 1 top scorer's career trajectory to that of Jamie Vardy.