Paris, France – Antoine Kombouaré hasn’t shied away from challenging Moses Simon to rediscover his best form since taking the helm at Paris FC. The manager, who previously coached Simon at Nantes, has publicly questioned the Nigerian international’s commitment and performance levels, demanding a consistent level of play befitting a player of his talent.
The comments, reported by Le Parisien on March 9, 2026, come after two appearances for Simon under Kombouaré, and reflect a clear expectation for improvement. While Simon has shown flashes of his ability – appearing more influential in recent matches against Nice (1-0) and Lyon (1-1) – Kombouaré insists that isn’t enough.
“Indigne d’un tel joueur” – Unworthy of Such a Player
Kombouaré’s criticism is pointed. “I told him it wasn’t normal… If you are a great player, whatever coach you have, you must maintain yourself, repeat the same performances,” he stated to Ligue 1+. He added, with considerable emphasis, “So I am of course happy to find him again, but what he did before was unworthy of such a player.”
This isn’t the first time Kombouaré has publicly addressed Simon’s form. During his initial press conference with Paris FC in February 2026, as reported by Le Parisien, the manager acknowledged the common perception that Simon has been “complicated,” but stressed the onus was on the player to respond. “It’s not normal that a player of that level is at the level he is at the moment. We expect a reaction from a man first, then on the field. We want to see a different player. But I won’t give him any gifts, ever.”
Reunion Rekindled, Expectations Raised
Simon’s move to Paris FC in the summer of 2025 reunited him with a manager he clearly benefited from previously. At Nantes, Simon flourished under Kombouaré’s guidance, directly contributing to 51 goals (23 goals, 28 assists) in 125 matches, according to All Nigeria Soccer. The hope is that this familiarity will unlock Simon’s potential once more.
However, Kombouaré is making it clear that past success doesn’t guarantee future performance. He’s demanding consistency and impact, qualities he feels Simon hasn’t consistently displayed since arriving at Paris FC. The manager likewise subtly shifted responsibility for previous struggles, stating, “It’s sad for the coach who was here before, Stéphane Gilli, but the leaders, when things don’t move well for a coach, it’s the players…”
Paris FC’s Search for Stability
Kombouaré’s appointment itself signals a desire for change at Paris FC. The club, recently promoted to Ligue 1, had been struggling for consistent results under Gilli, going winless since January 18, 2026, as noted by Punch Newspapers. The managerial change was seen as a necessary step to avoid relegation, with Kombouaré’s reputation as a “firefighter” manager – someone capable of stabilizing struggling teams – being a key factor in his selection.
Currently 15th in Ligue 1, just six points above the relegation play-off position, Paris FC desperately needs Simon to rediscover his form. The team relies on his pace, dribbling ability, and creativity to unlock defenses. Kombouaré believes Simon has the capacity to be a game-changer, but only if he embraces the challenge and consistently delivers performances that match his talent.
For Moses Simon, the message is clear: the trust is there, but it must be earned. The coming weeks will be crucial as he attempts to prove to his manager – and to the Paris FC faithful – that he is still the player Kombouaré knows he can be. The pressure is on to translate recent glimpses of form into sustained impact and help steer Paris FC clear of danger.
Paris FC’s next fixture is against Brest on March 16, 2026, at the Stade Francis-Le Blé. That match will provide Simon with another opportunity to demonstrate his commitment and repay the faith placed in him by his manager. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM CET (6:00 PM GMT).
