Nice aims to break free from its crisis this Saturday against Strasbourg at 7 p.m., bolstered by a new recruit and a reshuffled management team. The club has faced serious turmoil since the evening of November 30, when Nice supporters assaulted players returning from a defeat in Lorient. Although the majority shareholder, Ineos, continues to provide support, and the club has successfully passed its audit before the DNCG, the repercussions of that night have been devastating.
The management shift began with a significant decision: Fabrice Bocquet, who had been the general manager for three years under the leadership of Rivère and was appointed CEO in August, was released. This occurred after Rivère announced his return to the club’s leadership following a brief foray into politics to run for the Nice mayoralty.
Following a hard-fought victory against Saint-Etienne in the Coupe de France, ending a nightmarish streak of nine consecutive defeats across all competitions, Rivère pressed on with his plans to replace Franck Haise, who was under contract until 2029. Initially seen as an asset upon his return, Haise was dismissed the following week. Concerned about the lackluster performance in a match played behind closed doors due to previous crowd disturbances, Rivère concluded that a change was necessary.
In a surprising turn, Claude Puel, who previously managed Nice from 2012 to 2016 and had left under difficult circumstances, has been recalled to lead the team once again. Both Puel and Rivère have reconciled their differences and share a mutual respect. Puel, who has not managed a team since December 2021 with Saint-Etienne, expressed enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. He embraces the complexities of the role and is determined to stabilize the team without holding out for additional personal gain.
With a historical managerial figure now at the helm, Nice fans are hopeful that the tides will turn, especially with the introduction of new talent like Elye Wahi, who has joined on loan until the end of the season. The upcoming match against Strasbourg could be the catalyst for a much-needed revival for the club, igniting optimism in the hearts of supporters.