L’Équipe understands that Joris Chotard’s (22) relationship with the hierarchy at Montpellier HSC has been strained since he failed to secure a move away from the Ligue 1 club late in the transfer window.
Incapable of buying without first selling, it was a difficult transfer window for Montpellier, who despite not losing many of their key players – as was expected – failed to strengthen their side, making them one of the favourites for relegation this campaign. One player who almost secured a move away was Chotard, whose value increased after promising performances for Thierry Henry’s France team at the Olympics in Paris.
An offer from Wolfsburg was submitted and was worth €7m, plus an extra €2m in add-ons. This bid was rejected by sporting director Bruno Carotti, with the expectation that a second offer would arrive. However, it never did, and Chotard therefore remained at Montpellier, much to the frustration of the player.
L’Équipe understands that, prior to the 3-1 defeat at the hands of FC Nantes, Carotti went into the MHSC dressing room to greet the players, however, Chotard refused to shake his hand, whilst there was also a verbal confrontation between the pair. To make matters worse, Chotard has since picked up an injury and is expected to miss at least three weeks of action.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
