‘A calendar year not far from catastrophic’ – Le Havre in crisis with Didier Digard’s job on the line | OneFootball

Le Havre AC succeeded in staying in Ligue 1 last season having come up from Ligue 2. That was despite their meagre means. Luka Elsner made Les Ciel et Marines a difficult side to break down and it was on their defence that they ensured their survival.

However, Elsner left in the summer to join Stade de Reims. Didier Digard replaced him and the results have been far from convincing. The numbers don’t lie. They are second from bottom in Ligue 1, just three points above Montpellier HSC. They have lost 11 of their first 15 games, more than any other side in the top flight and have scored just 11 goals in the league – no team has scored fewer.

Things got worse over the weekend as they were knocked out of the Coupe de France by National 2 (fourth tier) side Stade Briochin. That defeat drew a scathing reaction from sporting director Mathieu Bodmer. “The players who don’t want to come back in 2025 just need to raise their hand. We’ll find solutions,” he said post-match.

He added, “We lacked respect for the club, for the supporters. We have had a calendar year not far from catastrophic.” Digard, who often leaps to the defence of his players, did not do so on this occasion. L’Équipe understands that his position is in danger. A strong start to 2025 will be key for Digard and Le Havre.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle