OGC Nice players release statement following Sunday’s fan ambush | OneFootball

OGC Nice have released a statement following Sunday’s violent scenes outside the club’s training centre. Around 400 fans expressed their anger about Les Aiglons’ sporting crisis. Earlier that day, Nice were humbled by promoted Ligue 1 side Lorient, with the INEOS-owned club on a six-game losing streak in all competitions.

Jérémie Boga and Terem Moffi were targeted, as was sporting director Florian Maurice. Boga and Moffi are now on sick leave. The LFP have denounced the alleged violence, as has the players’ union, the UNFP. An investigation has been opened by the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Head coach Franck Haise confirmed that players were hit and spat on. However, the police didn’t report this. Now, Nice players took matter into their hands and posted a statement, shared by the club. In their statement, Les Aiglons wish to set the record straight and denounce “attempts to minimise or distort the facts by individuals or organisations who were not present at the scene.”

The Nice players’ statement confirms that that players and directors were subjected to physical and verbal abuse with Maurice, Moffi, Boga and France international right-back all “particularly singled out in unacceptable conditions.“

Les Aiglons strongly condemn the shortcomings in the organisation and management of safety measures. “Given the context, the number of supporters present and their obvious hostility, the measures put in place were largely insufficient.“

The players also seem to lament the lack of support from the club’s owners and executives after Sunday’s events. “Players also regret the lack of consideration given the seriousness of the situation, as well as the lack of moral support, both individually and publicly, for players who suffer injuries.” 

Nice host Angers SCO on Sunday at the Allianz Riviera for Ligue 1’s Matchday 15.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval