Moses Simon Set for Emotional Reunion as Paris FC Face Nantes

It will be an emotional night for Nigeria international Moses Simon when he takes to the pitch at the Stade Sébastien Charlety on Friday, as Paris FC host Nantes in a French Ligue 1 matchday nine fixture.

For the first time since leaving in the summer, Simon will face his former club, Nantes, where he spent six memorable years before joining newly promoted Paris FC.

“I could have stayed there for twenty years,” Simon said during Thursday’s press conference, according to Le Parisien. “I had a strong bond with the supporters. I kept the Nantes jersey in my heart; I still have it at home.”

Simon became a fan favourite at Nantes, making 201 appearances, scoring 37 goals, and providing 42 assists. He also helped the club lift the Coupe de France in 2022.

His departure in the summer, following months of speculation, saddened many fans. Nantes were reluctant to let their vice-captain go, but Paris FC’s €6.5 million offer and ambitious project convinced both player and club.

Now 31, Simon still keeps in touch with his former teammates, including Super Eagles colleague Chidozie Awaziem, who rejoined Nantes this summer.

“But we didn’t talk about the match,” Simon said with a smile. “We know we’re going to win.”

At Paris FC, Simon has quickly become one of the leaders of a team determined to make an impact in Ligue 1. The club spent heavily to strengthen the squad and ensure survival in the top flight.

“There’s ambition at Nantes too,” Simon explained, “but here, there’s a stronger desire to achieve something. The playing style is different. I’m happy with my start to the season, but I want to give even more.”

Simon has so far scored two goals and provided two assists this season, though Paris FC manager Stéphane Gilli believes he can do better.

“Like other players, I expect more from him,” Gilli said. “He needs to be more consistent throughout games. He knows that, and we’ve talked about it.”

Simon agrees with his coach’s assessment. “If the coach says it, he’s right. He wants the best for the team.”

With matches against Nantes, Lyon, and Monaco coming up, Simon and Paris FC face a crucial run that could shape their season.