OGC Nice, the French football club owned by Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos, has been plunged into a severe crisis after two of its players were physically assaulted by their own supporters.
Training Ground Chaos and Violent Assault
The shocking incident occurred on Sunday, 2nd December 2025, as the team returned to their training ground following a defeat to FC Lorient. Despite being warned of a hostile reception, the squad's bus was met by an angry crowd. After two fan representatives were allowed on board to voice grievances over the team's poor form, the situation escalated violently.
Attackers targeted forwards Jeremie Boga and Terem Moffi, punching, kicking, and spitting on the players. It has been further alleged that racist abuse was also directed at them during the assault. The violence was so severe that goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf had to intervene to rescue Boga from the mob.
Players Placed on Leave and Legal Action
In the aftermath, both players have been placed on leave by the club and are pursuing legal action. Boga has been granted five days' leave following the attack, while Moffi will be out of action until at least Sunday. The club released a statement condemning the "unacceptable" incidents, offering full support to the targeted staff members, while also acknowledging the frustration caused by a run of seven consecutive defeats.
The reasons for the players being singled out have emerged. Boga reportedly drew ire after allegedly inviting Marseille fans to Nice's stadium earlier in the month, where they mocked home supporters. Moffi was targeted after he was seen laughing with former Lorient player Loic Remy following the weekend's loss.
Broader Context for Ratcliffe's Struggling Club
This unprecedented event caps a disastrous period for the Côte d'Azur club. Nice currently sit tenth in Ligue 1 and are rock bottom of their Europa League group, having lost all five of their matches. This represents a dramatic fall from grace after achieving their best league finish in seven years last season.
The turmoil also highlights the complexities of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's multi-club ownership. To allow both Manchester United and Nice to compete in the Europa League this season, Ratcliffe had to take a back seat at the French club due to UEFA regulations. Furthermore, Ineos explored a potential sale of Nice to Saudi investors in the summer, though no deal materialised.
Boga has since issued a public apology, stating: "At no time, believe me, was it my intention to show disrespect toward Nice supporters. However, I understand the disappointment this may have caused. To all those I may have hurt, I offer my apologies." The club has declined to comment further, citing an ongoing police investigation into the violent attack.
