Terem Moffi’s situation at OGC Nice could become clearer this January amid reports that the former Lorient forward may complete a move to another Ligue 1 club.
Former Nigeria international Simon Zenke, who spent six years in France with Nancy and Strasbourg and currently resides in the country, has urged his compatriot to accept the Auxerre offer if it materializes.
“Moffi has to leave the club for his personal and sporting interests, if you ask me what he should do. I have played in France and for you to succeed, your mind and heart have to be with your club,” Zenke exclusively told Footy-Africa. “I do not think he is in the right frame of mind or can even have the mindset to play for the club again after what happened to him.”
Nice squad backs Moffi and Boga as several players mull departure
“No one, not even a footballer, should be treated that way. It is a criminal offense, to be honest, because in football you cannot win all the time, and sometimes a club will go through a tough patch. Violence does not solve anything. I want him to move to Auxerre if the deal is concrete. They are a good side and I think they need a striker like Moffi who can offer them a lot. The player has to play. He has missed a few games now and I hope to see him back on the pitch because I admire his game,” the former Samsunspor striker added.
Before the ugly incident in December, Moffi had scored two goals in ten Ligue 1 appearances this season, and a move away could provide the fresh start he needs to revive his career.
The 26-year-old striker reportedly submitted a transfer request after he and teammate Jérémie Boga were physically assaulted by OGC Nice supporters following the club’s defeat to Lorient in early December.
Both players were involved in an altercation with a group of ultras at the club’s training facility, during which Moffi was allegedly punched and kicked. The disturbing incident sparked immediate speculation about their futures at the club.
Simon Zenke slams Nice fans’ violence as Terem Moffi seeks January move
In the aftermath, Nice placed both players on sick leave, and neither has featured for the club since. Their prolonged absence only intensified rumours of potential exits, with Moffi already indicating his desire to secure a move away during the January transfer window.
According to reports in France, Ligue 1 side Auxerre are keen on bringing Moffi to the club for the remainder of the season, with the deal potentially including an option to make the move permanent.
