‘If someone catches fire, he’s crazy’: French stadium impressive despite turmoil

It’s an impressive streak that takes the team to the final or more. Stade Français shines on the European stage and in the Challenge Cup with four wins in a row, including three with a bonus. During Saturday’s success against Castres (26-7), this extra point was not there, but everything that had been the strength of this team for several weeks showed up in Jean-Bouin: a strangling defense, solid attackers and a bit of success.

“We are handling weak moments much better than last year,” emphasizes rear Kaylan Hamdaoui. We are more confident in ourselves, we never give up. “We feel that there is no panic in the team,” says his manager Gonzalo Quesada. She lets the storm pass with wonderful calmness. »

Lots of internal movement

But not thanks to the peaceful backstage. At the start of the season, players and staff learned that the duo Labite-Gezal, who currently coach the French national team, would be leaving the Blues after the 2023 World Cup and replacing Quesada. The ideal situation for childbirth in the transition year. But at the moment, the confusion has rather rallied the team, taking second place in the Top 14 behind Toulouse.

“If someone catches fire, he is crazy, lose the Argentinean technician. There are a lot of movements, a lot of things going on regarding the future. Most of the staff will know if he stays or not. Players know week after week whether they will stay or not. Behind the man and the family…”

Latest issue: Questions about the future of striker coach Laurent Sempere, views of Blues coach Fabien Galtier, according to L’Equipe. Another file to manage behind the scenes. But in the window, those concerned do much more than just work.