ASSE faced FC Nantes in a match of fear. While they held themselves in check at Beaujoire (2-2), they did it again this Sunday (1-1). Among the lessons to be learned, one of them did not go unnoticed by Saint-Etienne supporters. Explanations.
Matthieu Cafaro's situation at AS Saint-Étienne is about to become tense in recent weeks. A regular starter under the previous coaches, the Saint-Etienne winger seems to have lost ground since the arrival of Eirik Horneland at the head of the team. The Norwegian technician, who arrived at the end of December to relaunch a team in search of stability, quickly imposed his choices and priorities, in particular by placing the emphasis on players in form and on more offensive and sharp profiles.
Boakye (ASSE) rayonne sous Horneland
An emblematic example of this trend is Augustine Boakye, who established himself as a fixture under Horneland. Author of three goals in three matches, Boakye took full advantage of the coach's confidence to shine and occupy a growing place in the starting lineup. However, during the match against Nantes, there was uncertainty over Boakye's ability to play the entire match. Despite this situation, Horneland chose to start Djylian Nguessan, relegating Cafaro to the bench. A first start in League 1 for the young 16-year-old player trained at ASSE who only had a few minutes in professional football.
The Saint-Etienne coach added after the match: “For N'Guessan, he was really very good in training, I really had no doubts when I started him in the team today. He has interesting ball quality, it's a great chance for us to have this kind of young player who arrives with complete confidence. Both (Fomba and Nguessan) earned their place thanks to their training. »
This choice is significant in more than one way. Not only did Cafaro not start the game, but he did not even come on as a substitute, a decision that is puzzling given the physical uncertainty surrounding Boakye. This observation underlines the lack of confidence placed in Cafaro by the new coach, a situation which could prove detrimental for the winger's future in the green jersey. Probably the result of his half-time outing at the park where he was uninspired.
-An upcoming divorce?
Under contract until June 2025, Matthieu Cafaro finds himself in a delicate position. Although his experience and qualities are recognized, his performance in training sessions does not seem to satisfy Horneland. The latter, known for his demands in terms of intensity and tactical discipline, could continue to do without Cafaro if he fails to adapt to his expectations.
To reverse the trend, Cafaro will have to redouble his efforts in training and take advantage of the slightest opportunity to prove his worth on the pitch. In the meantime, Horneland's handling of his case will remain a topic within the club and among supporters.
With the current dynamic and the coach's preference for other profiles, Cafaro could consider a transfer during the next transfer window to relaunch his career. Especially since league 2 clubs inquired about his case a few months before the end of his contract!
