Nice forwards Terem Moffi and Jérémie Boga have been granted leave from the team after allegedly facing an assault from their own supporters on Sunday night following a 3-1 loss against Lorient, sources informed ESPN.
Approximately 400 Ultras congregated at the club’s training ground waiting for the players in an escalating tense environment as the team returned from the match. Tensions flared when two fans boarded the team bus to voice their frustrations, leading to violence as players exited.
Sources indicate that Moffi has been placed on sick leave for a week, while Boga will take five days off. The two players reportedly endured physical abuse, including being punched, kicked, spat on, and verbally insulted by the Ultras, according to eyewitness accounts at Boulevard Jean-Luciano where the team bus returned from the airport after its trip to Lorient.
The players visited local police on Monday to file charges against the attackers. Authorities declined to comment when ESPN reached out for details.
Later that day, Nice released a statement: “Upon returning from Lorient on Sunday, the Eaglets were met at the training ground by a significant gathering.”
“The club acknowledges the frustration stemming from a string of disappointing performances that stray from its values.”
“Nevertheless, the behavior exhibited during this gathering is intolerable. Several club members were assaulted, and OGC Nice fully supports them while condemning these acts with utmost severity.”
The defeat in Brittany marked Nice’s sixth consecutive loss across all competitions.
Moffi and Boga were specifically targeted, facing accusations of poor attitudes in recent weeks. Moffi was reportedly punched, kicked, had his hair pulled, and required assistance from goalkeeper Yéhvann Diouf to escape the crowd and reach the safety of the club’s building, sources revealed.
Sporting director Florian Maurice needed protection from security as he made his way to his car, sources noted. Contrarily, manager Franck Haise received cheers from the Ultras, who assured him of their support. Current captain Melvin Bard and local midfielder Sofiane Diop did not experience any hostility from the Ultras.
Sources added that the remainder of the squad was eventually able to enter the team facility, though many players were left in shock and distress, blaming the club for inadequate security measures.
“How could they not ensure our safety better? It was unbelievable and frightening,” one Nice player expressed to ESPN.
Nice currently sits 10th in Ligue 1 and will host Angers this weekend.