Shock at USAP: Coach Franck Azéma fired after defeat!

Shock at USAP: Coach Franck Azéma fired after defeat!

The rugby world in France is turned upside down: Franck Azéma is no longer coach of USAP Perpignan. On Monday, October 27, the club announced his dismissal after a disastrous defeat against Montauban (29-22). This defeat was the eighth in a row for the team, which now finds itself at the bottom of the table in the prestigious Top 14 with no points. There has never been such a dismal balance in the history of the league.

A quick review of the season shows that Azéma, who had been in charge since 2023 and had his contract extended until 2028, finished 10th in his first season. But in the current season his team slipped to 13th place. The club had previously started the season with high expectations, retaining players like Posolo Tuilagi and signing international stars like Jordan Petaia and Jamie Ritchie to avoid relegation.

Change of coach and its challenges

The situation at the club is anything but rosy. After the resignation of assistant coaches David Marty and Gérald Bastide at the beginning of the month, this measure did not have the desired effect. The remaining coaching team, led by Mathieu Cidre, will now prepare the next game against Pau. The club has already announced that a new coaching staff will be introduced at a later date.

The heavy defeat against Montauban, a team that was also previously winless, adds additional pressure. Montauban now has a seven point lead over USAP. While Lyon already has 18 points after eight games and is in 12th place, the situation for Perpignan is becoming increasingly dire.

External influences and injury problems

Not only the performances on the pitch, but also injuries and incidents outside the game have further aggravated the situation. In the third round, there was a not-so-glorious incident where spectators threw beer at the players. The league reacted promptly: USAP now has to play a home game 75 kilometers away. Such incidents cast a shadow on the club and the team.

The fans and supporters of Perpignan now hope that the new coach can initiate a turnaround and the team can get out of this predicament. This makes the upcoming encounter against Pau all the more important, where all eyes will be on the coaching team and the players. The next challenge is already visible on the horizon.

Rugby fans can also look forward to being able to follow the games of the highest French league, Top 14, in full. Listings are available for programs and broadcasts that summarize when and where the games will take place - from the Champions League to international test matches for men and women. All important information can be found on the platform Rugbyrama.