Metz ultras to protest before Brest match as fans vent at leadership | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, Metz’s two main ultra groups will protest before Brest’s 17:15 kick-off, with the Ligue 1 bottom club on 13 points from 23 matches.

Horda Frénétik and Gruppa, long-time antagonists, have united to call the rally, arguing that loyal backing can also mean calling time on a sterile cycle.

One fan said patience has snapped and anger now targets the whole hierarchy, not just president Bernard Serin. He urged the departures of general manager Hélène Schrub and sporting director Frédéric Arpinon, citing Le Havre signing Sofiane Boufal and Angers adding Branco Van den Boomen.

Arpinon acknowledged fatigue after years of yo-yoing, with Metz relegated in 2015, 2018, 2022 and 2024, and at risk again in 2026. He appealed for backing, saying they are working to stay up without rash decisions.

Another supporter said promises have rung hollow for two decades, despite a club-record 17,500 season-ticket holders. He cited stalled projects at Frescaty and Saint-Symphorien, precarious conditions for the reserves and women, and limited reinvestment from Génération Foot graduates.

He also questioned January’s switch from Stéphane Le Mignan to Benoît Tavenot, who had been sacked by last-placed Bastia in Ligue 2, arguing the change has not helped. Metz are four points off the play-off place and winless in 11 league games, with 9 defeats and 2 draws. Tavenot said he understands the mood but is focused on trying to win quickly, which Arpinon believes would lift the gloom.

Source: L'Équipe