Exclusive: Jean-Victor Makengo Pledges Loyalty to Lorient After Summer Exit Rumours

After emerging as Ligue 2 champions last campaign, FC Lorient have faced a difficult start to the 2025-26 French Ligue 1 season with three losses and a win in their first four matches. 

French midfielder Jean-Victor Makengo has assured FC Lorient faithful of his commitment after making his maiden appearance of the season in their 4-0 defeat to Marseille in Friday’s Ligue 1 clash. 

Makengo was a subject of transfer speculations during the summer transfer window but he has fended off reports claiming that he wanted to leave Olivier Pantaloni’s team.

The 27-year-old, who left Udinese for Lorient in 2023, reiterated that he feels at home at the Stade du Moustoir.

“I was already very comfortable. My mind has always been at FC Lorient, so I'm very comfortable," he told SportsBoom.com. 

“As I said, it's a question of continuity. I feel very good and I've been working hard since the beginning of the pre-season. My head is here and even more so now.”

Makengo Ready to Help Lorient in Any Position 

At the Orange Velodrome on Friday, Makengo showed his versatility by first playing as an attacking midfielder in the opening minutes before switching to a deeper role after Lorient were reduced to 10 men in the 10th minute. 

He was in action for 62 minutes before being replaced by Cameroon’s Arthur Ebong-Avom.

When quizzed further about his preferred position, the former French youth international said: “Wherever I'm needed. Whether it's in lower midfield or higher midfield, I can adapt because I play as a midfielder."

“Wherever the coach thinks he needs me, I'll be there, and I'll give it my all. I feel capable of bringing more to each match."

“It's up to me to keep working and ensure the coach's confidence is reiterated.”

FC Lorient Remain Positive ahead of Le Havre Trip

Olivier Pantaloni’s team have now conceded 11 goals in their last two Ligue 1 games but Makengo maintains that they are in a positive mood to turn around their form.

Lorient currently occupy the 16th position in the 18-team table, just above Brest and Metz. 

They are now focused on grabbing their second win of the season when they travel to the Stade Oceane for their next Ligue 1 game against Le Havre on Sunday. 

“We take the positives and keep moving forward, with great determination to go to Le Havre and get a good result," Makengo added.

“Like every match, we're going to prepare in the best possible way. We're going to start the week and work to be ready this weekend and deliver the best version of ourselves."

“I'm working, as I said, every week, every day, to be in shape. It's my job, so I feel very good," he concluded.