The Nantes coach Vahid Halilhodzic has shown his determination before a crucial trip to Auxerre.
Recently arriving as the head coach of FC Nantes, Vahid Halilhodzic does not intend to passively accept the situation. After the frustrating draw against Metz (0-0), the coach clearly stated his expectations. “I expect a reaction, that we fight at least with pride,” he said, regretting a performance well below his expectations. While the defeat against Strasbourg (2-3) had offered some glimmers of hope, the display against Lorraine deeply disappointed him.
Total mobilization demanded
The Nantes coach notably points out a lack of involvement and personality. “We work a lot, and even well […] but I did not see what was worked on during the week,” he insisted, mentioning a worrying start to the match and a lack of aggressiveness. Without mincing words, Halilhodzic demands more character: “I would like some to be more warriors. I was a fighter on the field. Some are so kind.” A direct message to a group he sometimes considers too timid.
Aware of the urgency, the Bosnian coach plans to take action quickly. “I will go see each player […] to ask them if they are ready,” he warned, not ruling out strong decisions: “Next time, if a change needs to be made in the 5th minute, no problem.” A way to shake up his team. Despite the delicate situation, Halilhodzic refuses to give up. “As long as there is a glimmer of hope, we will not give up, I will not give up,” he stressed. For him, there is only one solution: victory. “Auxerre is truly a do-or-die match […] we must win to keep a small hope.” Determined, the coach assures that he will go “all the way,” regardless of the outcome of the season.
