Reminder of the facts to try to understand this incredible saga: A young man from Menton, Matthieu Muratore, claims, with documents to support it, to have registered with the INPI the brand Issa Nissa, an unofficial but recognized “war cry” of Nice football supporters and a slogan used on other occasions to show their Niçoise identity.
In short, he would be the “owner” and the only one authorized to grant its use either freely or for a fee. And this is where the problem lies… Is he a swindler or a clever person who has managed to exploit a loophole and wants to profit from it legitimately? This character, with a modest and ordinary appearance, is he alone or backed by some legal support?
The remark is not trivial because Matthias Muratore, that’s his name, skillfully delivers soundbites with immediate impact: In the space of one day he went from a threatening tone (We negotiate or I will assert my rights) to double talk (Yes to supporters*, no to the club). Is he a smart young man or the spokesperson for someone else?
Why the change of heart? A wave of generosity or the fear of some “physical” discussions with a few enthusiasts who never miss an opportunity to get noticed?
However, this clever individual is evidently enjoying the game of bluff poker with the president of OGC Nice, Jean-Pierre Rivère, who accused him of blackmail: “Why accuse me if we don’t know each other?, that’s his position” retorts the accused in turn.
Moreover, the target is clear and can only be the Nice club and its president, who have the necessary funds to recover this brand for commercial purposes. Who would benefit from the merchandising?
The mayor of Nice has also stepped into the arena of declarations to express his indignation and pledged to do everything possible to prevent “Issa Nissa” from remaining in the hands of such an individual.
The ball is now in the court of the legal experts to understand whether the position of Matthias Muratore (and his possible accomplices) has the claimed legitimacy.
However, it would be useful to ask how such things can happen. In this episode, the club’s management comes out poorly. Had no one thought to protect the brand, which everyone affirms is of sentimental and commercial importance? Did it take a Matthias Muratore to discover it?
Everyone here calls themselves a manager this, a manager that…
