Following the chaotic scenes that led to the premature termination of the FC Nantes versus Toulouse Ligue 1 clash on May 17, the fallout has sparked intense debate. Roland Menu, president of the ‘Allez Nantes Canaris’ supporters’ club, has spoken out forcefully against the unacceptable violence that overshadowed the match.
Unacceptable behavior tarnishes the game
Pitch invasions, projectile throwing, and the use of pyrotechnics marked the final moments of the FC Nantes versus Toulouse fixture. Roland Menu, a lifelong FC Nantes supporter of 60 years, expressed his profound disappointment at the events that unfolded.
Do you share coach Vahid Halilhodžić’s sentiment of ‘shame’ and the term ‘cowards’ used to describe those responsible for Sunday evening’s chaos?
Absolutely. It was a disgrace and those responsible are indeed cowards. Watching what happened last night left me heartbroken. While we’re all frustrated with the team’s current situation, invading the pitch crosses a line we cannot tolerate. We understand the repercussions these actions will bring for the club.
Unexpected surge of violence
Rumors of potential protests had circulated, but we anticipated them occurring after the final whistle. The timing and scale of the violence came as a complete shock. The intensity and speed with which events unfolded were unprecedented.
Did you expect such a violent reaction from the ultras?
We had heard murmurings about potential demonstrations, but nothing suggested such immediate and aggressive action during the match itself. The sheer force and proportion of the violence were beyond anything we could have imagined.
Coach Halilhodžić displayed visible anger during the incident. Do you share his frustration?
Without question. The coach’s primary concern was to urge calm and return fans to the stands so the match could resume. His reaction was entirely justified – he wanted the game to continue. Particularly as this was his final match, it’s truly disheartening.
Potential sanctions loom large
The French Football League will announce its decision on May 27. Among the possibilities are matches behind closed doors, which would deprive supporters of the chance to cheer on their team during potentially crucial early season fixtures.
There’s also concern about potential point deductions. Facing a season with an immediate handicap would make an already difficult situation even more challenging.
This isn’t the first time such incidents have occurred. Calls for disbanding the ‘Brigade Loire’ have resurfaced. What’s your position on this?
‘Brigade Loire’ represents a group of individuals rather than a proper supporters’ club. While they contribute to stadium atmosphere, their actions yesterday crossed all acceptable boundaries. Pitch invasion by any group – regardless of their affiliation – cannot be excused.
True supporters stand united
Do you consider them true supporters?
Absolutely not. True support means encouraging your team through both triumph and adversity, not resorting to violence that damages the club’s reputation and future.
With potential relegation to Ligue 2, will you continue supporting FC Nantes?
Without hesitation. A lifetime of supporting this club means we stand by them through every challenge. We’ve weathered poor management, financial difficulties, and relegation threats before. For us, FC Nantes is everything.