The party is over in Rouen. After its good run in the Coupe de France, ending in the quarter-finals against Valenciennes (L2/ 1-1, 2 tab to 4; February 29), the National club has returned to its tumultuous daily life. Despite an encouraging season from a sporting point of view, the FCR (5th in the Championship) carries its share of controversies and incidents. The latest occurred on Friday at the Robert-Diochon stadium, during the defeat against Le Mans (0-1). It could have turned into a tragedy.
While the Red Devils were fighting on the pitch, around 500 people, according to Paris-Normandie, tried to physically attack the contested president Charles Maarek, in the stands. Having been warned of the intention to fight his opponents, mainly from ultra groups (Rouen Fans and Kop Lenoble), who contest his financial management of the club and demand his departure, the manager – accustomed to following the meetings of his team from the sidelines – had taken care to take refuge in the Horlaville stand. But it was not enough. His security service was overwhelmed and the leader had to be exfiltrated.
“I am looking to sell the club as quickly as possible (…), and turn this very painful page. »
Charles Maarek, on France 3 Normandy.
“These events once again cast shame on the club and tarnish its image,” denounced the FCR in a press release. Shocked by the insults, threats and projectiles received but not injured, Maarek took the time over the weekend to recover from his emotions. And above all made a decision, confirmed this Monday to France 3 Normandie: “I am looking to sell the club as quickly as possible. (…) I am trying to save the club and leave cleanly, and turn this very painful page. »
Last month, when his club had just eliminated Toulouse and Monaco in the Cup, without easing tensions behind the scenes, he had already opened up about his intentions to L’Equipe and had already considered this possibility: “If I have to leave my place, I will leave it. We are wondering about potential buyers. I just tell the supporters that you don’t sell a football club like you resign from an association. We still need a captain, but it wouldn’t be a problem (to leave). »
Offers already on the table
Since the default of debts noted by the DNCG, which resulted in a withdrawal of five points by the DNCG on November 29 (the advisory opinion of the CNOSF on appeal has still not been rendered), the goods dealer has lost the confidence of many in the City of a Hundred Spires. Within the Fédération des Culs Rouges, minority co-shareholders, we do not believe this version: “We feel he is capable of staying. He could take advantage of the improved (financial) situation to continue. » But the pressure given on Friday by the ultras, motivated a priori by the rumor of a new merger with the neighbor of Quevilly-Rouen-Métropole (L2), could well turn into a coup de grace.
The municipality may assure that “a new merger project is not under discussion and will never be again”, Charles Maarek, who nevertheless is of the same opinion – “As long as I am here, there will not be of fusion” -, having decided to give up arms. By selling its shares (72% of the capital). According to our information, there is no shortage of buyout offers. A group of entrepreneurs with local roots has already come forward and at least two American pension funds are also interested.
