The “Aiglons” took part in their penultimate training session before leaving for Marseille, where they will face OM in the final match of the 28th day of the championship (this Sunday at 9 PM).
With two days to go before a thrilling Mediterranean derby, P. Vieira and M. Sarr were present in front of the media. Balotelli’s departure, Gilles Grimandi’s arrival, the upcoming derby. We’ll tell you everything!
Balotelli
The Nice supporters still seem very upset with their former number 9, Mario Balotelli, as reflected in M. Sarr’s words: “Mario Balotelli? I’m indifferent. We’re definitely upset with him. We would have liked everyone to be involved during the first half of the season. He set himself apart, decided not to integrate, and not to be part of the club’s project. It was awkward. It’s a shame he acted this way, but it’s his decision (…) He’s just a former teammate, that’s all. He knows very well that his behavior wasn’t appreciated by everyone. He wasted six months, but we’re still in the race for Europe.”
Patrick Vieira, on the other hand, sought to calm the tensions: “He probably needed another source of motivation. We tried, but he wanted to leave from the beginning. Now we’ve moved on.”
The Derby
Malang Sarr wanted to point out: “Marseille supporters could travel, but ours cannot. It feels bad, it’s awkward for us. I was surprised by the club’s solidarity in recent weeks. We’ve stayed united and strong! We’ve come out of it stronger. Everything’s getting back to normal. But OM is doing better after a period of uncertainty, just like us. The team that shows the most desire and dedication will win on Sunday night!”
“Europe is still in our minds. We have to be disciplined and defend together in Marseille to hope to win,” assured coach Vieira. “The traveling ban for our supporters is incomprehensible. Football should be a great popular celebration.”
Gilles Grimandi
“Gilles’s arrival is excellent news, thanks to the OGC Nice project. He can help the club progress. He’s someone who likes to stay out of the spotlight, a hard worker. He’ll be responsible for the football philosophy in the first team and the academy, as well as recruitment. He’s here for the club’s project, not for me. His criteria and experience perfectly match the club’s needs!” reassured Patrick Vieira.
Injury Updates
Recovered from the hamstring injury he suffered in mid-February, Myziane is fit again. Ignatius Ganago, on the other hand, has entered the recovery phase.
