After a dramatic fall from grace, historic club Girondins de Bordeaux is experiencing a "crazy renaissance" in the fourth division, National 2. Despite a challenging start to the season and past setbacks, the team, under new management and with significant squad changes, has found its stride. They are now firmly in contention for promotion, demonstrating a renewed spirit and strong performances that have reignited hope among their dedicated fanbase.
Key Takeaways
- Bordeaux, once a Ligue 1 powerhouse, has fallen to the fourth tier (National 2).
- A poor start to the season put coach Bruno Irles under pressure.
- A string of victories, including a crucial win against Stade Poitevin, has propelled Bordeaux up the league table.
- The team boasts a strong attack and a solid defense, making them serious promotion candidates.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Girondins de Bordeaux, a club steeped in history and once a fixture in France's top flight, has endured a tumultuous period. A rapid decline saw them relegated to the fourth division, National 2. After a disappointing previous season where they narrowly missed out on promotion, the club was under immense pressure to perform this year. The management, led by Gérard Lopez, invested heavily in the squad, bringing in over 15 new players under the guidance of sporting director John Williams. Bruno Irles was retained as head coach, with the mandate for promotion being non-negotiable.
The Turning Point
The season began poorly for Bordeaux, with only two wins in their first six matches, leading to an ultimatum for coach Bruno Irles. The pressure intensified, but a pivotal 3-0 victory against Stade Poitevin marked a significant turning point. This win seemed to unlock the team's potential, sparking a remarkable run of form. Subsequent victories followed, including another 3-0 win against then-league leaders La Roche-sur-Yon, a 1-0 triumph over Chauray, and a 2-1 win against Locminé. These successes, coupled with positive results in the Coupe de France, have seen Bordeaux climb the league standings.
Strong Contenders for Promotion
Bordeaux now sits on the podium, level on points with second-placed Angoulême and just two points behind leaders La Roche-sur-Yon. The team appears well-equipped for a promotion push. The attack is firing, with key contributions from players like Steve Shamal, Mathieu Villette, and Ludéric Etonde. Defensively, they are one of the league's best, anchored by Driss Trichard, Oualid El Hajjam, and the homegrown Jean Grillot. The unwavering support of the fans, who continue to fill the stadium, further bolsters the team's morale. While the National 2 season is long and fraught with challenges, Bordeaux has demonstrated the resilience and quality needed to compete for a return to professional football. This season could indeed be "the year" for the club to reclaim its former glory.