“The coach decides” – Nigeria’s Moses Simon speaks on losing Nantes captaincy to Cameroon’s Jean-Charles Castelletto

In a candid press conference ahead of FC Nantes’ clash against Auxerre, Nigerian winger Moses Simon addressed the decision that saw him overlooked for the club’s captaincy, Soccernet.ng reports.

Despite being a consistent performer for the Canaries since joining the team in 2019, Simon acknowledged the coach’s choice to hand the captain’s armband to Cameroonian defender Jean-Charles Castelletto for the 2024/25 season.

When asked about his feelings on not being named captain, Simon remained composed, emphasising the importance of team unity over individual accolades.

“We are a team,” he said as per Nantes media. “It is the coach who decides. He knows why he is giving it today to JC (Jean-Charles Castelletto), who is a team leader, an international player.

“Even Pallois, Lafont, Chirivella… when you are captain of the team, you don’t do everything. We are here to play, not to be captain. There is no difference between us and JC.”

Simon, who has made 169 appearances for Nantes, scoring 29 goals and providing 32 assists, has been a key figure for the club over the years.

His leadership qualities did not go unnoticed, as he was elevated to the “council of wise men,” a group of senior players tasked with guiding the younger and newer members of the squad. This role allows Simon to continue influencing the team, even without the captain’s armband.

Reflecting on his journey back to fitness after a serious injury that marred the end of last season, Simon expressed his relief at returning to the pitch.

“I feel good now. The end of the season was difficult for me, mentally too. I’m not 100% but I’m okay,” he said.

Despite some lingering pain, Simon was optimistic about the upcoming season.

Simon also spoke about his relationship with FC Nantes manager Antoine Kombouaré, describing it as akin to that of “father and son.” He praised Kombouaré for his supportive nature, particularly during tough times.

“When you have difficulties, he comes to talk with you. If you have a problem in your family, he is there to help you,” Simon noted.

Nantes were held to a goalless draw in their season opener against Toulouse last weekend but Simon and teammates will look to claim their first win of the campaign against newly promoted Auxerre on Sunday.

Despite being one of the club’s most prominent attackers, the Nigeria international insists that Nantes’ success is a collective effort.

“The important thing is not Simon. It’s the team. If we win or lose, it’s not Simon. It’s the team. We’re here for the good of the team. We’re together,” he reiterated.

Although he may not wear the captain’s armband, Simon’s influence within the squad remains undeniable. As the season unfolds, his leadership, both on and off the field, will be crucial in helping Nantes improve on their 14th-place finish from last season.