Former Nantes manager Luis Castro hits back at Waldemar Kita criticism
Former FC Nantes manager Luis Castro has issued a sharp response to recent comments made by the club's president, Waldemar Kita, defending his professional reputation. The Portuguese coach, who was dismissed by Nantes last December, released a statement through his representatives, as reported by Ouest-France, after Kita gave an interview criticizing his tenure. In that interview, Kita suggested coaches take presidents "hostage" and labelled Castro one of the worst managers of his presidency, claiming he lacked experience and was "an educator" who "cannot succeed."
Castro's camp stated they had chosen not to "fuel any controversy" until now but felt compelled to respond to defend the coach's standing. "The professional career of Luis Castro is widely recognized by many football figures," the statement read. "As proof, after his departure from FC Nantes, he was contacted by several clubs and, within ten days, began a new sporting project, reflecting the confidence placed in his profile and his skills." Castro swiftly took over at Spanish second-tier side Levante in January following his exit from Nantes.
The statement also addressed Castro's brief time at La Beaujoire, noting that during his tenure he "presented proposals relating to the planning of the season's structure and the composition of the squad, within the framework of his duties, which were not implemented." This suggests a divergence in vision between the coach and the club's hierarchy during a turbulent season that sees Nantes fighting relegation ahead of a crucial final-day match against Rennes. The club sits in 17th place, the relegation play-off spot, ahead of the final round of Ligue 1 fixtures.
Castro's new project at Levante has shown early signs of success. When he arrived, the Valencia-based club was bottom of the Segunda División. Under his guidance, they have climbed to 18th position and are now within two points of safety, undertaking a notable salvage operation with one game remaining in their season. This upturn in form stands in contrast to Kita's public assessment of his capabilities.
The statement concluded with a pointed warning, indicating that legal action remains a possibility. "Luis Castro reserves the right, if necessary, to act through the appropriate channels to defend his honor and his reputation," it said. This public retort marks a significant escalation in the fallout from Castro's dismissal and highlights the ongoing tensions behind the scenes at FC Nantes as the club faces a critical moment in its recent history.
