“Separating from Nicolas Seube is a complicated choice to make”

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His speech was eagerly awaited, two days after the ouster of Nicolas Seube from his position as coach of the Stade Malherbe Caen (Calvados). This Tuesday, December 31, 2024, Ziad Hammoudthe president of the club, did not shy away when explaining this decision which has difficulty going over with certain supporters.

“A difficult decision to make”

It was a very difficult decision to make. We took a break to sort everything out and we came to this decision late, at the end of last week. I told him face to face the next morning.

“We had to do it now”

A “humanly complicated” moment, to hear it. The president of the SMC did not forget to pay homage to the legend of the club. “I want to thank him for everything he has accomplished for the club, as a player, trainer or coach. “He is an emblematic figure who has always demonstrated dedication and righteousness.” In his tribute, he did not omit Patrice Sauvaget, Nicolas Seube's assistant, who is also leaving the club.

Assuring that he “understands the anger of the supporters”, Ziad Hammoud nevertheless insisted on the urgency of the situation. Barragist, SM Caen has no time to lose to finish the season in waters more in line with the ambitions of its shareholder, the Mabppé family. “We took this decision in the interest of the club, even if it puts us in an uncomfortable position.” And this, despite the extenuating circumstances what could the former defensive midfielder do (late transfer window, injuries, lack of success, etc.).

We waited a while to see if the trend reversed. But we have important deadlines in January, facing direct competitors. It had to be done now, to give the new coach enough time.

“Nico was management’s choice”

The representative of Interconnected Ventures, Kylian Mbappé's investment fund, above all put an end to rumors according to which the fate of Nicolas Seube had been resolved since the takeover of the club, in the summer of 2024.

Nico was an assumed choice of management, he was not there by default. We pushed hard for him to stay. He's someone I really like on a human level.

The president of Stade Malherbe, without elaborating, suggested that the laconic nature of the press release announcing the departure of Nicolas Seube had been agreed with the person concerned, and that tributes would be organized in some time.

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