Nantes, once known for their distinctive attacking style in the 1990s, are now facing the grim prospect of relegation to Ligue 2. The club, which won a league title and reached the Champions League semi-finals in that era, has been plagued by instability under president Waldemar Kita, who has made 23 managerial appointments since buying the club in 2007. Current coach Vahid Halilhodzic, who returned in March at age 73, described the situation as 'improvisation and incompetence at every level.'
A Revolving Door of Managers
Kita's tenure has been marked by frequent changes in the dugout. Only two managers have overseen 50 or more games. In two of the last three seasons, Nantes have had three different coaches in a single campaign. Halilhodzic, who previously managed Nantes in 2021, warned of impending doom then, but his warnings were not heeded. Now, with three games remaining, Nantes are five points from safety after a 2-1 derby defeat to Rennes, courtesy of a stoppage-time goal from former player Valentin Rongier.
Kita Deflects Blame
Kita has attempted to shift responsibility onto former coach Luís Castro, who was sacked in December after just two wins in 15 games. In an explosive interview, Kita called Castro a 'youth coach' and claimed he wanted him removed after pre-season friendlies. However, Castro's current club, Levante, are climbing the La Liga table, highlighting the common denominator: Kita's mismanagement. Kita admitted football is 'not my profession' but a 'stupid hobby,' yet he continues to wield significant influence over the club.
Halilhodzic's Impossible Mission
Halilhodzic, who had been out of work since 2022, described saving Nantes as 'mission almost impossible.' His side has not won since his arrival, and they have the fewest goals in Ligue 1 this season. Facing Marseille and Lens in their remaining fixtures, Nantes must win at least one and hope Auxerre fail to pick up points. The odds are heavily against them.
A Shipwreck Not of His Making
Halilhodzic will likely leave at the end of the season, having failed in his mission, but the damage was done long before his return. He joins a list of recent Nantes managers, including Pierre Aristouy and Antoine Kombouaré, who have criticized the club's management. Nantes are now on the brink of their first relegation since 2012, a consequence of what has become known as 'gestion à la Nantaise.'
