Téji Savanier's recent remarks during the Coupe de France have ignited significant discussions surrounding Montpellier HSC's dismal performance this season. The club, which stands at the bottom of Ligue 1, faced yet another setback during their matchup against the amateur team Puy Foot 43, where they suffered a staggering 4-0 defeat, resulting in their elimination from the tournament.
This match, held on December 21, 2024, at the Stade Charles Massot, saw Montpellier HSC not only lose the game but also their chance for redemption amid their struggling season. With only one victory from their last eleven matches and having accumulated merely nine points from fifteen games, the team's morale and performance have been under intense scrutiny.
During this disappointing match, the Montpellier captain, Téji Savanier, found himself on the receiving end of taunts from the crowd when one spectator questioned, "Dernier de Ligue 1 ça fait pas mal ?" ("Being last place in Ligue 1, isn’t it painful?"). Savanier responded defiantly, saying, "Quand tu touches 210 000 euros par mois, non" ("When you earn 210,000 euros per month, no."). This response has sparked outrage and criticism, painting him as indifferent to the team's plight as he emphasized his substantial salary over the team's performance.
Public sentiment quickly shifted against Savanier following this incident. Fans interpreted his comment as emblematic of the disconnect between high-paid players and the struggles of their club. Many expressed disappointment, feeling his reaction was disrespectful to those supporting the team through challenging times. This unfortunate exchange has gone viral on social media, with various platforms broadcasting his remarks and fueling even more debate about the state of Montpellier HSC.
Social media reactions have highlighted the growing fissures between the players and the supporters. Those who were once avid fans are becoming increasingly disillusioned, particularly at the lack of passion shown by players during the game against Puy. The team's current predicament could not be more concerning; they currently hold the last position in Ligue 1, finding success elusive as they aim to navigate through this season. With Savanier scoring just one goal this season, questions about his fitness and commitment have arisen frequently.
Téji Savanier has faced criticism before, most recently from former coach Michel Der Zakarian, who noted concerns about the midfielder's fitness. Der Zakarian highlighted his long-term struggle to get Savanier to shed excess weight, remarking, "Lui et Khazri, ça fait un an et demi que je me bats avec eux pour qu'ils perdent du poids. Mais j'ai abandonné" ("He and Khazri, I’ve been fighting with them for one and a half years to lose weight. But I’ve abandoned."). This admission suggests underlying issues contributing to Montpellier’s poor performance.
Coach Jean-Louis Gasset didn’t pull any punches when discussing the aftermath of the match. He expressed, "La honte. Un sentiment de honte. […] Mais mentalement, c’est très inquiétant" ("The shame. A feeling of shame. […] But mentally, it’s very worrying"). His comments reflect the gravity of the situation, where both the coach and the players must grapple with their current performance levels. The loss to Puy Foot 43 not only resulted in their exit from the Coupe de France but also served as another reminder of just how dire the state of HMSC is.
Now, with the new year approaching, the team is poised to face Olympique Lyonnais on January 4, 2025. They understand the weight on their shoulders and the need to improve their standing within Ligue 1. Savanier, as captain, holds the responsibility of setting the tone for his teammates. Supporters are hoping he can channel the feedback they have provided and rally the team to demonstrate the drive and passion necessary for success.
Montpellier's management and support staff are looking at this moment as critically important not only for the results on the pitch but also for restoring faith between the players and the fans. Moving forward, the expected introspection by Savanier and the team will be monumental. Will they rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
