The recent triumph of the Ivory Coast over Nigeria in the AFCON 2023 final not only marked a historic sporting moment but also brought unexpected financial gains for French club Clermont Foot. While the Auvergne-based team has faced challenges in recent weeks, the Ivory Coast’s success has provided a silver lining, resulting in a windfall of €50,000 for the club.
The intriguing financial twist stems from the strategic negotiations surrounding the departure of Emerse Faé, who served as the coach of Clermont Foot’s reserve team in June 2022.
According to reports from L’Équipe, when Clermont sold Faé to Ivory Coast, three distinct conditions were agreed upon.
These conditions included the organization of a friendly match in Clermont before June 30, 2024, as well as financial clauses tied to the Ivorian national team’s success with Faé on its coaching staff.
The financial terms specified that Clermont Foot would receive €25,000 if Ivory Coast emerged victorious in the AFCON with Faé as part of its coaching staff.
Notably, Faé assumed a pivotal role in the Ivorian coaching setup, stepping in as the head coach at short notice to replace Gasset and ultimately steering the team to a triumphant AFCON 2023 victory.
The financial agreement took into account the potential scenario where Faé would assume a more permanent coaching role for the Ivorian national team. In such a case, Clermont Foot would be entitled to an additional €25,000.
The unexpected turn of events, with Faé not only contributing to the AFCON success but also assuming the role of head coach, has translated into a notable financial boost for Clermont Foot.
While the club navigates challenges on the pitch, this unexpected windfall provides a unique and positive aspect amid recent uncertainties. As the Ivorian celebration continues, Clermont Foot finds reasons to smile, not only in the triumph of a former coach but also in the financial dividends negotiated strategically.
