Tensions between Wahbi Khazri and Montpellier supporters escalated again following the club’s goalless draw against Stade de Reims, a result that officially confirmed their relegation from Ligue 1.
Despite a more promising performance on the pitch that saw young talents such as Lucas Mincarelli, Junior Ndiaye, and Yaël Mouanga earn praise, frustration remained palpable in the stands.
The draw ended a streak of eleven consecutive defeats, but it was not enough to lift the morale of the home fans, who remain deeply disappointed with the team’s performance this season.
During the closing stages of the match, Khazri and fellow veteran Téji Savanier were brought on as substitutes. Their entrance was met with a hostile reception from a section of the Montpellier crowd, who chanted mocking slogans targeting both players.
The chants, referring to perceived lifestyle choices off the pitch, were pointed and personal, causing visible irritation among the players.
Khazri, visibly affected by the jeering, appeared to confront the situation at the final whistle but was held back by teammates to avoid direct conflict. This is not the first time the Tunisian international has clashed with the club’s supporters this season.
On at least two other occasions, Khazri has been involved in heated exchanges with fans amid growing dissatisfaction over the team’s results and his perceived contribution.
Having arrived at Montpellier following a spell at Saint-Étienne, Khazri was expected to bring leadership and attacking threat. However, as the club slipped into crisis and eventually relegation, his relationship with the fanbase steadily deteriorated.
While he has made occasional contributions on the pitch, including a few crucial goals earlier in the campaign, they have been overshadowed by broader frustrations with the team’s trajectory.
As Montpellier prepares for the challenges of Ligue 2 next season, significant changes are expected both on and off the field. Decisions will need to be made regarding the futures of senior players, including Khazri.
The club’s leadership will also be faced with the difficult task of rebuilding trust between players and fans, a task made more urgent by the season’s dramatic collapse.
For Khazri, the latest episode adds to what has become a season to forget. Whether he remains with the club or moves on will likely depend not only on footballing decisions but also on whether a reconciliation with supporters is possible in the near future.
