Teji Savanier, the former captain of Montpellier HSC, is on the verge of leaving the club as discontent grows over his performance and salary. The 33-year-old midfielder, once celebrated as one of the key figures at the club, now finds himself facing the possibility of departure during the upcoming January transfer window, with potential suitors from Greece, the United States, and Dubai showing interest.
After seven seasons with Montpellier, Savanier has experienced significant highs, including being the top assist provider during the 2018-2019 Ligue 1 season. He’s known for his playmaking abilities, having logged impressive statistics of 48 goals and 42 assists across his time with the club. Despite his abilities, reports indicate he is no longer the same decisive player he once was, leading to speculation about his future.
An incident during the recent Coupe de France when Montpellier faced the lower-tier team Le Puy appears to have exacerbated existing tensions. During this match, Savanier’s outspoken reply to disappointed fans—"When you earn 210,000 euros per month, it’s okay!"—has not only drawn criticism from supporters but has also put the club's management on edge. This moment of discord seemingly sealed his fate at the club.
Montpellier is reportedly seeking to alleviate its wage bill, with Savanier's substantial salary being cited as one of the factors driving the club's decision to offload him. Foot Mercato notes the club's willingness to entertain offers for the midfielder, particularly as they aim to reinvigorate the squad amid declining performances.
The club has received interest from several sources, including Aris Salonique, which is actively preparing an offer for the midfielder. Alongside the Greek club, multiple Major League Soccer (MLS) franchises and clubs from Dubai are also interested. Though Savanier has expressed openness to exploring opportunities abroad, he has yet to prioritize leaving Montpellier, feeling comfortable within the environment he has known for most of his career.
Savanier's potential exit would mark the end of a significant era for both the player and the club. Having been central to Montpellier's strategies, his departure will likely bring about changes not only on the field but also for team morale and fan engagement. The club currently grapples with declining performance on the pitch, reflected by recent results and their standing in Ligue 1.
This situation encapsulates the harsh realities of professional football, where passion can quickly transform to frustration, especially for players who may not deliver consistent performances. If Savanier's move materializes, it would be seen as both a relief for the club’s financials and as a bittersweet goodbye to one of its most recognizable players.
With the January transfer window opening soon, all eyes will be on Montpellier to see if they can negotiate effectively to finalize Savanier's departure. The saga of Teji Savanier serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift within the world of sports, leaving players both nostalgic for their past successes and eager for new challenges.