Grenoble Players Threaten strike as Club Stands Firm on Coach’s Suspension
Grenoble’s Pro D2 season is facing disruption as players threatened to strike ahead of Friday’s match against Provence Rugby, following the suspension of three-quarter coach Nicolas Nadau. The team refused to train Tuesday in protest of the decision,prompted by Nadau’s comments made during the fifth day Pro D2 match against Brive on September 21st,where Grenoble lost 24-21.
Nadau was placed on conservatory layoff after allegedly making inappropriate remarks towards the club doctor, as detailed in a report from the LNR (Ligue Nationale de Rugby) doctor.
Club President Patrick Goffi addressed the situation, stating, “Whether there is one or not players will not change anything. The position of the club is clear: the comments of our coach during the meeting in Brive are inadmissible. I saw the report of the doctor of the LNR,it is indeed very clear and precise on the terms wich put in fault our coach. There is a question of inadmissible remarks towards our club doctor. This constitutes a fault and the club has made the decision of a layoff.”
Goffi firmly rejected the threat of a strike, adding, “I saw them this morning, I explained the situation to them. And I repeat it: that they go on strike will not change anything. It is even counterproductive, it goes against the interests they want to defend. Everyone assumes their responsibilities and it is not the players who decide this kind of thing, that we are very clear. They are responsible adults, professionals, players.”
The players’ exhibition of support highlights Nadau’s impact on the team, having led Grenoble to the Pro D2 final three consecutive years, though each final was lost at Ernest-Wallon in Toulouse. The situation remains unresolved as the club and players remain at odds.
