Nice supporters stormed the pitch following a goalless draw against Metz at the Allianz Riviera, forcing players and staff to rush down the tunnel. The incident encapsulates the deep frustration with Ineos' ownership as the club faces a relegation playoff.
Season of Decline
Nice began the season in the Champions League qualifiers but now risk relegation to Ligue 2. The failure to beat Metz on the final day means they will face Saint-Étienne in a two-legged playoff. Ineos, who bought the club for €100m in 2019 with ambitions to challenge PSG, are reportedly looking to sell.
Fan Fury Boils Over
Anger had been building for months. In November, players Terem Moffi and Jérémie Boga were attacked after a defeat. On Sunday, ultras moved from the second tier to the first at half-time, and at full-time they rampaged across the pitch, with trouble continuing late into the night. Staff and journalists were trapped in the stadium until after midnight.
Managerial Turmoil
Franck Haise left in December after complaining he could not build a group. Claude Puel, his replacement, has managed only two league wins in 18 games. Tactics and selections have drawn fierce criticism, but the problems run deeper.
Ownership Under Fire
Ineos have focused on Manchester United, reducing investment at Nice. Key players like Evann Guessand and Marcin Bulka were sold, and replacements have failed. Kevin Carlos, signed to replace Guessand, has not scored a league goal. The club's co-president Jean-Pierre Rivère called for unity, but the fracture runs deep.
Relegation Playoff Looms
The playoff against Saint-Étienne will overshadow the Coupe de France final against Lens. Rivère admitted the final is no longer a priority. The team's focus is split, reminiscent of Reims last season, who lost both the cup final and the playoff.
Nantes also saw fan violence, with their match against Toulouse abandoned after 22 minutes as ultras threw flares and stormed the pitch. Manager Vahid Halilhodzic stood alone to plead with fans before retiring.
