Moses Simon, the electrifying Nigerian winger, has been a vital cog in FC Nantes’ machinery since his arrival in 2019. Over the past five years, Simon has dazzled fans and troubled defenders with his pace, skill, and work ethic.
Despite his pivotal role in the team, Simon was recently passed over for the captaincy, with coach Antoine Kombouaré choosing Cameroonian defender Jean-Charles Castelletto for the armband instead.
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Kombouaré’s decision was grounded in Castelletto’s stability and experience. The 28-year-old defender, who has made 132 appearances for Nantes, has become a cornerstone of the team’s defense. “He has a lot of experience, and is very respected by the group. He has had solid seasons; he is deserving,” Kombouaré explained, as reported by Ouest France. This endorsement highlights the qualities that led to Castelletto’s captaincy—his consistency, leadership, and tactical awareness on the field.
However, Simon’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has been elevated to the “council of wise men,” a group that includes seasoned players like Nicolas Pallois, Alban Lafont, Pedro Chirivella, and Castelletto. This council plays a crucial role in providing leadership and guidance to the squad, ensuring that Simon’s voice will continue to be influential within the team.
As FC Nantes prepares to kick off their Ligue 1 campaign against Toulouse, all eyes will be on Simon. Although he won’t be wearing the captain’s armband, his influence on the pitch is undeniable. The Super Eagles star is determined to lead by example, driving the team forward and helping Nantes improve on their 14th-place finish from last season.
Simon’s situation reflects the complexities of leadership within football clubs, where experience and perceived stability can sometimes overshadow consistent performance and long-term contributions. As the season unfolds, Simon’s adaptability and continued impact will be critical, both for Nantes and his international career with Nigeria.
