Nantes President Defends Decision on Coupe de France Proceeds
The recent Coupe de France match between FC Nantes and amateur club JA Drancy has sparked controversy after Nantes opted not to share the match's proceeds, amounting to 26,000 euros, with Drancy. Following Nantes' 4-0 victory at Stade Bauer, Drancy's president, Alain Melaye, expressed disappointment over the decision, stating that the financial burden of the match left his club with a deficit of 40,000 euros after expenses.
In response to the criticism, Nantes President Waldemar Kita defended his club's stance, emphasizing that professional clubs should not be viewed as 'cash cows.' He expressed his disappointment with the reception from Drancy's management, noting that no one from the club welcomed them or initiated a dialogue. Kita remarked, "It’s a lack of manners. We were left on the sidelines, alone in the stadium. I am not complaining, but we must be respectful and polite."
Kita further clarified that he is not directly involved in financial decisions at Nantes, suggesting that the responsibility lies with other club officials. Despite the backlash, he indicated that the incident is behind him as he shifts focus to the ongoing league season, where Nantes currently sits in a precarious 16th position.
Drancy's Financial Struggles Highlighted
Melaye lamented the financial implications of the match, stating, "We are going to make a transfer of 13,000 euros to Nantes while the club has a budget of several tens of millions of euros." He criticized the lack of support from professional clubs towards amateur teams, pointing out that many football stars originate from smaller clubs. Melaye's comments reflect a broader concern about the disconnect between professional and amateur football, emphasizing the need for greater respect and collaboration between the two levels of the sport.
