Montpellier is enduring a tough season with eight losses in ten matches, putting them close to the relegation zone. New coach Jean-Louis Gasset is hopeful about revitalizing the team, emphasizing the need for unity and effort. He aims to reintegrate sidelined players and strengthen the defense, which has conceded 30 goals. The return of key players and a positive outcome in upcoming matches could be crucial for the club as they strive to maintain their top-tier status.
Montpellier’s Struggles This Season
Montpellier is currently facing a challenging season. With a defense that seems to crumble under pressure, an influx of injuries to key players, and a noticeable lack of determination, the 2012 French champions have struggled significantly. In the first quarter of the season, they’ve suffered eight defeats out of ten matches, leaving them six points adrift of the relegation zone, currently occupied by Angers. As the club approaches its fiftieth anniversary, it is imperative that they regroup in order to maintain their status in the top tier of French football.
Hope on the Horizon with Coach Gasset
Coach Jean-Louis Gasset, who took the helm on October 22, is optimistic about turning things around. “The Paillade is still alive, and we need to ignite that spirit starting Sunday. The players are prepared to put in extra effort,” he asserts. Despite facing a tough start, including a 5-0 loss to Marseille and subsequent defeats against Toulouse and Le Havre, Gasset believes in the potential of his squad. He emphasizes that even quality teams can have difficult beginnings and eventually find their stride.
As he works to mend the rifts between senior players and the previous coaching staff, Gasset is eagerly awaiting the return of injured players, including playmaker Téji Savanier, who will miss the upcoming match against Brest due to suspension. “We’re putting in the work to ensure key players regain their form and that injured teammates return. A positive result before the international break could pave the way for brighter days,” he insists.
In the coming weeks, Montpellier anticipates the return of crucial players like Swiss defender Becir Omeragic, midfielder Joris Chotard, and Khalil Fayad, all of whom have been sidelined due to injuries. Additionally, Gasset is focused on reintegrating key players like Benjamin Lecomte, Jordan Ferri, and Wahbi Khazri, who were somewhat marginalized under the previous coach. He also looks to new recruit Nikola Maksimovic, a seasoned Serbian defender, to help fortify a struggling defense that has conceded 30 goals so far. With time running out, Montpellier must act quickly to reverse their fortunes.