OGC Nice launches its Ligue 1 season this Saturday against FC Lorient (8:45 PM), in an Allianz Riviera that will sound empty. For this first official appointment under Olivier Pantaloni’s orders, the Eagles must turn the page on a past season marked by the struggle for survival.
This first match will be played behind closed doors, in application of the sanction received following incidents against Metz in May. Deprived of its supporters for this match, attendance at Thursday’s training was significant. A way for supporters to get closer to the squad nonetheless. “Having contact with them, feeling their pulse, their expectations, it’s important for us“, rejoices Olivier Pantaloni during the traditional pre-match press conference.
The Corsican refuses to project only on the result: “Above all, I expect to see an irreproachable state of mind, we must show that we are determined not to relive a season like the past one.” Arrived this summer, the coach says he has established his rules to mobilize the squad: “In everyday life, players must have reference points. If a mistake is made, there will be a sanction.“
A speech confirmed by Jonathan Clauss, who mentions a renewed work climate: “He comes with his philosophy and his strong desire to win, we are in daily sharing to improve things quickly.“
Jonathan Clauss appointed captain
One of Nice’s off-season questions concerned the successor to Dante for the captaincy. Pantaloni confirmed it, it is indeed Jonathan Clauss who will inherit the armband this season.
A nomination that the 33-year-old right-back says he welcomes with joy: “I am very proud of that, I was not necessarily the one who asked for it, but I heard praise about me from the coach.” The latter justifies his choice: “We felt that, because of his experience and talent, he could be a driving force for the squad, he is someone who is appreciated.”
An attacking sector under construction for this first squad
Solid defensively in the last warm-up matches, the Gym must still find its automatisms up front. Olivier Pantaloni mentions work in progress: “We must manage to transform certain behaviors to be more effective offensively.“
Nathan Ngoumou, who came to reinvigorate Nice’s attack, is expected to be available. Mohamed-Ali Cho will also be present without certainty of starting, while waiting, perhaps, for the return of Elye Wahi. Teddy Boulhendi will also be the backup goalkeeper this season.
On the other hand, Moïse Bombito is still bothered by his shin and Axel Witsel is not yet ready. Mohamed Abdelmonem is also lacking rhythm, having been unable to play the 45 minutes hoped for against Hull City.
Lorient, a particular opponent for Pantaloni
This match will have a special flavor for the Nice coach, who arrived directly from Lorient in mid-June. But he cuts it short: “Simple coincidence of the schedule, it’s true that it’s particular for me, but I am focused on the idea of achieving results with my new club.“
Asked about the Breton team, he is aware that it is undergoing a full transition with the arrival of Alexandre Dujeux. “There are surely tactical changes that have been made. The players had good automatisms, now with a new system, I have a few more doubts.” FC Lorient nonetheless remains on solid preparation with 4 victories in 6 matches.
An intriguing duel is therefore shaping up between two new coaches at the head of their respective teams. Romain Lissorgue will be the referee for this match at the Allianz Riviera, this Saturday at 8:45 PM.
Probable lineups
OGC Nice: Diouf – Mendy, Ndayishimiye, Mandza – Clauss (C), Everton, Coulibaly, Bard – Hein, Diallo, Diop
FC Lorient: Mvogo – Georgen, Talbi (C), Adjei, Kouassi – Avom, Cadiou – Le Bris, Bernardeau, Makengo – Tosin
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