Nice, owned by Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS, returned to training after falling into disarray after losing to Lorient. The players came under attack from disgruntled fans after seven consecutive defeats, with Jeremy Boga and Terem Moffi taking legal action.
Neither player will train this week, with Boga given five days off after the attack and Moffi out until Sunday. Tribuna claimed that the two were physically assaulted, including being punched, kicked and spat on.
Racist slurs were hurled at them and Boga had to be rescued by Yevan Diouf.
Despite being warned of the hostile response that awaited the team bus at the training ground, Nice chose to return. Initially, two fan representatives were allowed on the bus to express their dissatisfaction with the club’s recent poor performance.
However, the situation quickly deteriorated, with Boga and Moffi bearing the brunt of fans’ anger.
According to reports, Boga was targeted earlier this month for inviting Marseille fans to the stadium where he allegedly mocked home supporters.
As for Moffi, it is claimed he was seen having a laugh with former Lorient player Loic Remy after the defeat at the weekend.
Boga issued a statement regarding the uproar over his actions, saying: “Believe me, I never intended to be disrespectful to Nice supporters. However, I understand the disappointment this has caused and I apologize to everyone I may have hurt.”
Nice have chosen to remain silent given the ongoing police investigation, but the club has issued a formal response following the incident.
“On Sunday, the Eagles returned from Lorient and were greeted by a large gathering in front of the Training and Development Center.
“The club understands the frustration caused by a series of poor performances and performances that depart from the club’s values.
“However, the incidents that occurred during this gathering are unacceptable. Several club members were targeted. OGC Nice fully supports them and condemns these actions in the strongest possible terms.”
Nice currently sit in 10th place in Ligue 1 and are at the bottom of the Europa League after losing all five games. Ratcliffe’s side are enduring tough times after winning their highest league position in seven years last season.
Ratcliffe stepped down from his role with the French side as UEFA rules regarding multi-club ownership in the same competition were clarified, allowing both Manchester United and Nice to participate in the Europa League throughout the 2024/25 season.
INEOS considered a potential sale over the summer after Saudi investors expressed preliminary interest, but no deal was reached.
