Why Mickaël Nadé has become indispensable at Saint-Étienne | OneFootball

Not the most effusive, but undoubtedly one of the most persistent, Mickaël Nadé has again defied predictions that he would be a back-up this season. The arrival of Philippe Montanier has not changed his status, his starting place has never been in question.

According to Le Progres, that says as much about his qualities as the number of injuries around him, and his spot in the XI has been secure since the opening weeks.

Montanier has portrayed the centre-back as extremely reliable, in keeping with a defence that has held firm. For five years, successive Saint-Étienne coaches, whether forced by injuries or convinced by his level, have handed him significant minutes.

The local narrative of an unsinkable outsider now feels perennial, yet the substance is clear. Nadé is the only Saint-Étienne player to have featured in every match this season.

Coaches also recognise his seriousness and consistency, which helps explain the broad consensus around him. Reliability has become his hallmark, and it continues to command trust.

Source: Le Progres