A few weeks ago, Laurent Ciman was fired at CF Montreal. In particular, the team’s poor defensive results; the former Red Devil defended himself.
The adventure of Laurent Ciman within the CF Montreal staff ended bitterly a few weeks ago. The management of the Quebec club decided to part ways with the Belgian, particularly due to the club’s poor defensive record during 2024 in MLS.
But in an interview given to the Canadian media The PressCiman insisted on giving his version of the facts. He admits to being stunned: “I absolutely didn’t expect it. It was a surprise,” declares the former defender and captain of Standard. Gabriel Gervais, president of CF Montreal, pointed out the 64 goals conceded by the team during the season.
Ciman regrets the attitude of CF Montreal
“We conceded 64 goals, and that’s not normal, I agree with him. But firstly, I’m not on the pitch. Secondly, I’m not the coach, I’m not “I’m not the one who decides what exercises we do during the week to prepare for the weekend. And three, he has to stop watching hockey,” Ciman then asserts.
The Belgian refers to the fact that in ice hockey, each specific coach works on a single sector. Laurent Ciman was not limited to working with defenders: he was assistant to Laurent Courtois. “I’m not a defense assistant, I’m an overall assistant. We have defined roles, but you can ask any midfielder or striker: I worked with everyone. It’s a bit easy to say that “, says the now ex-Montreal deputy.
Gervais and the Quebec coach also highlighted that the absences of Laurent Ciman during certain CF Montreal trips posed a problem. “It was in my contract. We knew very well why I no longer made certain trips, it’s easy to blame me.” Ciman’s daughter, who suffers from autism, requires special attention that sometimes requires his presence.
“I was always grateful to the club for letting me manage my family. During matches, I texted the coach or assistants when necessary, to tell them what I saw on TV. I do not seek to justify myself but to clarify things,” he continues.
What future now for Laurent Ciman? The ex-defender loves life in Quebec, which is particularly suitable for his 14-year-old daughter who requires special care. “But I need to work. I’ve made phone calls here and there, I have projects in mind and still things to give. However, I can leave the CF with my head held high after everything I’ve done. I gave,” he concludes.
