Kylian Mbappe, celebrated as one of many world’s greatest gamers, has discovered himself in unfamiliar territory—not on the pitch, however as a membership proprietor. The French famous person, who took an 80% possession stake in Ligue 2 aspect Caen in July 2024 via his funding agency Coalition Capital, is dealing with rising discontent from followers of the storied membership. As soon as heralded as a feel-good story of a soccer icon giving again, the Actual Madrid star’s possession tenure has turned bitter, marked by poor outcomes, controversial choices, and comparisons to different high-profile soccer house owners like Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Todd Boehly.
When Mbappe acquired a majority stake in Caen, optimism surged amongst supporters. The membership, which had a wealthy historical past in Ligue 1, had struggled in recent times, languishing in Ligue 2 since 2019. The France worldwide’s involvement, coupled with reviews of a €15 million private funding, was seen as a possible turning level for the membership’s fortunes.
Nevertheless, midway via the 2024-25 season, the Vikings discover themselves sixteenth in Ligue 2, degree on factors with the relegation zone. A 1-0 loss to Clermont Foot on Friday additional compounded their struggles, prompting followers to voice their dissatisfaction. Throughout the match, supporters displayed banners criticizing the membership’s administration.
One banner learn: “Mbappe, SMC isn’t your toy.” One other urged respect for native traditions, stating: “Earlier than shining on the world stage, respect the native figures.”
Divisive Determination: Sacking coach Nicolas Seube
Central to the discontent is Mbappe’s resolution to half methods with Nicolas Seube, a Caen legend who served as each participant and coach for over 20 years. Seube was dismissed in December following a poor first half of the season, with Bruno Baltazar introduced in as his substitute.
The announcement of Seube’s dismissal, described as abrupt and missing respect, drew sharp criticism. Former Caen participant Brahim Thiam voiced his displeasure on France Bleu, stating: “It’s as in the event that they’ve given Nicolas Seube a kick within the pants, telling him to go away. It’s merely disrespectful.” Supporters echoed this sentiment with banners studying: “Right here, legends are made via work and loyalty.”
French media comparisons: Ratcliffe, Boehly, and Mbappe
The French media has drawn comparisons between Mbappe’s dealing with of SM Caen and the tumultuous first years of Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Manchester United and Todd Boehly at Chelsea. Ratcliffe, who acquired a minority stake in Manchester United in December 2023, applied ruthless cost-cutting measures, together with lowering workers headcount by 25%. Whereas some workers sympathized with Ratcliffe’s targets, many described morale as being very low.
Equally, Todd Boehly’s tenure at Chelsea has been marked by overspending, overseeing 4 everlasting managers and three squad overhauls in simply two years. The fractured relationship between Boehly and his co-owner Behdad Eghbali has forged additional doubt on the Blues’ possession construction.
Compared, Mbappe’s tenure at Caen has been characterised by abrupt choices and unfulfilled guarantees, sparking accusations that the membership has change into a mere “toy” for the French star.
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