Laurent Abergel has completed a move to OGC Nice after seven years with Lorient, the club confirmed this week. The 33-year-old midfielder has signed a three-year contract with Nice, despite the club enduring a difficult season in the previous campaign. The transfer comes as a surprise to many who expected Abergel to finish his career with Lorient, where he served as captain.
Abergel explained that changes within the Lorient ownership, with Black Knight taking a more active role, contributed to his decision to seek a new challenge. He stated he didn’t want to become a disruptive force at the club and felt he needed a different sporting environment to continue performing at his best. He emphasized his conviction that joining Nice represents a step forward in his career, stating he would have been willing to join even if they had been in Ligue 2.
The move was also facilitated by Abergel’s existing relationship with Nice manager Olivier Pantaloni, who previously managed him at AC Ajaccio early in his career. Pantaloni highlighted the need for leadership and character within the Nice squad, believing Abergel possesses the qualities to elevate the team. He described Abergel as a player who can inspire those around him and act as a valuable link between the coaching staff and the players.
Abergel expressed his eagerness to integrate into the Nice squad and contribute positively, emphasizing his humility and willingness to adapt. He acknowledged the potential for scrutiny due to his origins in Marseille, a rival club to Nice, and pledged to work hard to earn the support of the Nice faithful. He referenced Pancho Abardonado, a player who also represented both clubs, as an example of successfully bridging the rivalry. He was welcomed to the club with a t-shirt from the Populaire Sud ultras group, demonstrating an immediate acceptance from the club’s supporters.
The midfielder feels mentally refreshed and prepared for the challenge, believing he has gained valuable experience in recent years. Abergel’s first match back in Ligue 1 will be against his former club, Lorient, on August 22nd.
