Franck Haise has decided to remain at the helm of OGC Nice. The coach confirmed his position in an interview with L’Équipe, following a training session delayed by several hours. However, he assures that he came very close to leaving after the tumultuous night experienced at the training center on Sunday.
The sporting crisis and the incidents that occurred on Sunday have weakened the club. The scene lasted nearly three-quarters of an hour. The players were confronted by a hostile group that surrounded the bus. Sporting director Florian Maurice was “heavily jostled.” The players were “insulted, shaken, and pushed around.” Terem Moffi and Jérémie Boga have filed complaints and are expected to leave the club this winter. The management has condemned the incidents that have marked the locker room, where the atmosphere remains tense.
In this context, Franck Haise hesitated for a long time to continue. He explains using strong words in an interview with L’Équipe: “I really thought about breaking my commitment with the club. More than thought, even. But I am staying for the people. That night, I couldn’t sleep and I told myself that I couldn’t give up. We have to take on the challenge that the situation represents, and I am sure I want to fight,” he states. He adds: “I was ready to leave, my managers knew that. The incident on Sunday night was the last straw, one more drop. I wondered what we had done to experience things like this. I am fine with showing displeasure, but there are ways to do it: with banners, whistles, chants’ strikes… But what’s the next step? I would not have left for sporting reasons.”
His words convey a deep unease. They also remind that the situation goes beyond the sporting framework. The violence, insults, and pressure from the public weighed on his judgment. The OGC Nice coach has reaffirmed his determination since the beginning to continue leading a group he knows is affected, but that he is determined to support despite the current difficulties.
Franck Haise had already expressed doubts in the preceding days. After the defeat in the Europa League against Porto, he considered leaving his position. He eventually rallied, hoping for a reaction from his team. His decision to stay now appears as a fragile but deliberate choice.
Franck Haise sends direct messages to his management team
The other highlight of the interview lies in his critique of the management structure. Franck Haise laments a lack of support and communication. He says he was not contacted after the incidents: “I haven’t heard from the shareholder, nor the shareholder’s representative since Sunday night, and I was the one who called the president late Monday afternoon because I wasn’t getting any news from Florian Maurice.” He continues: “I am taking responsibility by staying as the coach. Well, there you go, Jean-Claude Blanc just texted me, it’s Wednesday morning… I am staying to make sure everyone takes responsibility.”
These statements highlight an internal divide that has been simmering for several months. They show a coach who feels isolated just as his players and staff are navigating a difficult time. Franck Haise indicates that he had to take the initiative to obtain information. He hopes that everyone becomes aware of their own responsibilities.
The day’s training, scheduled for 10:30 a.m., finally began with several hours of delay. Players, staff, and management gathered in the locker room. President Fabrice Bocquet, Jean-Claude Blanc, and Florian Maurice were present. The group engaged in a lengthy discussion. This moment extended the internal tensions observed since Sunday night.
By deciding to stay, Franck Haise aims to maintain a structure. He seeks total commitment from all components of the club. His message is intended for both his players and management. He emphasizes the need to hold on, restore calm, and protect the group.
The coming weeks will be crucial. The sporting crisis is now coupled with a deep institutional disturbance. The coach’s continued presence will not be enough to dispel the mistrust among Gym supporters. The club will need to address complaints, concerns, and a loss of confidence. On the field, signs of recovery have yet to emerge. Franck Haise and his staff will have to deal with a shaken group, injured players, and a hostile environment. He says he wants to “fight”. The challenge will be significant. The first test comes Sunday with hosting Angers at 3 p.m.
