Maxence Rivera has signed with USL Dunkerque for the next two seasons. Trained at ASSE and winner of the Gambardella in 2019, he leaves Forez on a free, without ever having managed to really establish himself. For Le Progrès, he speaks for the first time since the official announcement of his departure. Excerpts.
How did you go to Dunkirk?
“Dunkirk came to see me for a few matches at Saint-Etienne. I had other offers, but they really wanted me. When a club calls you several times to tell you they want you, it means they are really interested. I am convinced that this is the best project for my career. I spoke with the sports director and the sports coordinator who relayed the coach’s comments. It feels good and I tell myself that it’s a new beginning. We’ll have to do the work there. »
How did you manage this end-of-contract period with the need to find a new club?
“I was not in the spirit of preserving myself. There was the end of the season with Saint-Etienne and if I had been called upon, I would have given my all. There was the last reserve match after the first contacts and I did not refuse to play. It’s often when we think about that that we get hurt. I play, and if I get injured, that’s life. I never pretended until the end. »
How do you view your time at ASSE?
“I received superb training. I arrived in Saint-Etienne in U14. Everything has gone well so far. I have no regrets. Even though I didn’t play much during my professional years. I was loaned to Puy, it did me good, gave me playing time and visibility. I won the Gambardella in 2019. I only had good coaches throughout my training, I only have good memories. I will never spit on this club. »
