The transfer window officially opened this Tuesday morning, and OGC Nice confirmed the arrival of Hatem Ben Arfa. For the Ivorian midfielder Jean-Michael Seri, it’s only a matter of hours.
Six months and a few days later, the French international Hatem Ben Arfa is, this time, officially an “Aiglon” (Eaglet). A semester after the particularly unique winter transfer window and the saga surrounding Ben Arfa’s case (contract annulled because he had played for three teams in less than a year), Nice acquires a significant offensive reinforcement. Capable of playing all positions in attack, he could quickly become the fan favorite at the Allianz Riviera with his dribbles and accelerations known only to him. It should be noted that Hatem Ben Arfa hasn’t played on the pitch since December 18, when he was wearing the colors of Hull City (Premier League).
“It is a gamble for us as it is for him. I met a boy with character and integrity. We’re not expecting him as a Messiah but as a member who will integrate into our team,” explained Jean-Pierre Rivère on RMC yesterday.
Already announced about ten days ago during the review conference, the arrival of the 24-year-old midfielder Jean-Michael Seri should occur in the coming days. The former player of Paços Ferreira (Portuguese First Division) resembles Nampalys Mendy in profile, though he projects more forward. A good deal for OGC Nice, while other more prestigious clubs were in the running.
In terms of departures, nothing official except for the end of Didier Digard’s contract. There’s a status quo for Éric Bauthéac, while Grégoire Puel is expected to find a new club. The club is therefore searching for a right-back. In the press, the name Maxime Le Marchand, a right-back from Le Havre, has been mentioned insistently.
Photo credit and more information at www.ogcnice.com
