FC Nantes manager Vahid Halilhodžić has voiced strong criticism of refereeing inconsistencies, referencing the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and Atlético Madrid. Halilhodžić made his comments during a press conference ahead of Nantes’ crucial Ligue 1 match against Lens on Friday evening, according to reports from French media.
Halilhodžić was visibly frustrated by the frequent departures of both Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone from their technical areas during the match, noting their attempts to influence the referee. He suggested that both managers should have been sent off multiple times, stating they “should have been excluded 50 times” during the game.
The Nantes manager’s comments stem from his own recent frustration with refereeing decisions, having been sent off against Brest for protesting a call. He contrasted the perceived leniency shown to Simeone and Arteta with the treatment he receives, claiming that any similar protest from him is immediately met with a dismissal. “When it’s Vahid who asks, it’s ‘get out!’” he reportedly said.
Halilhodžić’s tenure at Nantes has been marked by a challenging period for the club, currently battling to avoid relegation to Ligue 2. His remarks reflect a broader sense of injustice he feels regarding the club’s situation and his own treatment by officials. The manager’s comments are unlikely to improve relations with French football authorities, but underscore his passionate defense of his team.
In separate news, Francis Coquelin is reportedly extending his stay with Nantes, while Marquinhos is set to join the club. These moves suggest Nantes are attempting to bolster their squad as they fight to maintain their top-flight status. The addition of Marquinhos could provide much-needed reinforcement, but the team’s performance will ultimately depend on their ability to secure positive results on the pitch.
