The setbacks never end at the Racing Club de Lens (RCL). This January 8, captain and goalkeeper Brice Samba announced his departure to join Stade Rennais. The Spaniard Pau Lopez, considered for a time for this position, will ultimately not take over as goalkeeper. The supporters see red.
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“It’s quite a mess.” The exclamation escapes from Gabin’s mouth, without him being able to contain it. The young man, a supporter of Lens since his birth, breathes, looking disillusioned. Because this January 9, the faithful of the Sang et Or are in mourning: their captain and goalkeeper Brice Samba has officially left, after three years with the club. A brutal announcement, which most did not see coming.
“I didn’t expect him to leave, it’s a big disappointment“, attests Muriel, RC Lens supporter and owner of the Chez Muriel café, a landmark where club enthusiasts meet.
I don’t recognize him. He is the captain and a real captain must not leave in the winter transfer window.
Muriel, supporter of RC Lens
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Brice Samba announced his departure for Rennes in a long post on X this Wednesday. Without however explaining the reasons which led him to this choice.
To replace it, several avenues were discussed internally. It was ultimately the Spanish and international Pau Lopez who was selected, as announced by La Gaillette in a video on X, thus lifting the veil on all the rumors that had been circulating for several hours.
But while a total agreement had just been reached between RC Lens, Olympique de Marseille (OM) and Pau Lopez, the arrival of the Spanish international was finally canceled. A surprise decision, yet another twist in this affair, which is turning into controversy in the small world of football. “Girona FC informed Olympique de Marseille today of its firm desire to keep the player until January 29“, a condition”unacceptable” for the Lensois, who renounce the signing of the contract.
► ALSO READ : “I say goodbye to you today”: Brice Samba formalizes his departure from RC Lens for Rennes in the middle of the season
Obviously, on the supporter side, reactions are multiplying. “How can we formalize something that is not certain? ?“, says an Internet user on X, joined by another: “The Racing Circus Lens still what amateurism I have the impression that this club has gone down 3 floors at all levels…“The supporters express their deep disappointment and incomprehension.”But seriously, what do we think we are!“, concludes a faithful, circumspect.
Above all, after a complicated start to the season and a defeat against Toulouse last weekend, the Lensois fear a drop in performance in the next matches. Indeed, with only two goalkeepers under control and without a captain, the mission risks being difficult.
“These two departures will affect the next matches“, attests Muriel, pouting. “Especially since others are starting to doubt the sporting project and will surely want to leave… Like Brice Samba.“
