Shelved by Stéphane Dumont last season, Matthis Riou is today one of Sylvain Ripoll’s key men. The current coach of En Avant Guingamp particularly appreciates the revival qualities of the almost 24-year-old Plougrescantais, who is now playing Ligue 2 matches. Still convincing against Dunkirk a week ago, during his 13th start (out of 18 possible) in the championship, Riou came back into favor when not many people at the club were counting on him last summer.
“A common wish”
Without the intervention of the Morbihan technician and his president, who ended up retaining him, the Trégorois would have taken the direction of Rodez, where he was to sign a three-year contract. Being only linked until June to his training club, which he joined at the age of 11, he will be free to join wherever he wishes in a few months. “I would like him to stay,” proclaims Fred Le Grand, its president. And I think he would like to stay too. There is a common desire to continue the adventure. But it ticks a little on both sides on the financial aspect. »
The discussions are even on standby today, and nothing says that they will necessarily lead to an agreement. However, the club says it wants things to move forward quickly. As for the player’s representatives, who assure that they are not asking for the moon, they are now procrastinating, wanting not to eternally pollute the defender with these contract stories.
“An honest guy who never cheated”
The latest symbol of Breton and local football in Guingamp, Riou also presents an atypical profile. Able to play in several positions and compensate for certain lacks in impact with a recovery well above average, he also shines, this winter, with a consistency which he has lacked until now. Are these guarantees enough to make him an indisputable holder in the coming seasons? This is what is at stake in these negotiations which also relate to En Avant’s sporting strategy.
“Matthis is an honest guy, who has never cheated,” recognizes his president. Obviously, I have a particular affection for the people who are local. We have to be able to find an agreement while each being reasonable. »
Spared in Annecy on Friday, where he only entered at the end of the match, Riou will probably find playing time this week with the successive receptions of Sochaux, this Tuesday in the round of 16 of the Coupe de France, then of Rodez , Friday. New opportunities to showcase yourself, therefore, before defining where your future will be written.
Morocco
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