Franck Haise’s recent departure from OGC Nice is still a raw topic, as evidenced by the atmosphere during Stade Rennais’ match at the Allianz Riviera on Sunday.
Haise parted ways with Nice at the end of December following a significant executive reshuffle, which saw Jean-Pierre Rivere and Maurice Cohen take over as co-presidents, replacing Fabrice Bocquet. This change was prompted by a troubling incident involving fans, where ultras reportedly attacked players Jérémie Boga and Terem Moffi, both of whom subsequently went on sick leave before leaving the club.
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Initially, Haise considered resigning in light of the incident but ultimately decided to remain for several more weeks. During an interview with L’Équipe, he condemned the violence: “What could have happened if someone had reacted poorly? Some appeared in balaclavas with petanque balls. Was their intention to play petanque?”
Photo credit: Luke Entwistle
In response to the situation, Nice fans unfurled a banner on Sunday that read: “F. Haise, seeing [petanque] balls is all well and good, having balls is better.” Haise, now managing Rennes, was also met with derogatory chants from the home crowd.
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During a post-match press conference covered by Get French Football News, Haise reflected on the situation: “As for the people I worked with—executives, players, staff—I cherished the moments we had together today. The rest holds little significance for me. Those who truly know me are the ones who worked alongside me,” he stated.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Nice