Khazri Set for Emotional Reunion as Bordeaux Host Bastia
Wahbi Khazri is set to face his former club Bastia for the first time since his summer move to Bordeaux, as the two sides meet this weekend in Ligue 1’s fourth round.
The Tunisian international spent nine years with the Corsican side, but insists sentiment will not affect his focus when he steps onto the pitch at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.
“Wearing the Sporting [Bastia] colours for nine years is no small feat,” Khazri told Sud Ouest. “But once I’m in the game, I’ll be at 200%, as I’ve always been throughout my career.”
The attacking midfielder also reflected on his time in Corsica, describing the unique environment of playing for Bastia.
“In Corsica, I was in a cocoon. The weather is nice, it’s the good life. The pressure is there, but the goal is to stay up, not to reach Europe,” he explained. “Bastia is a hundred times smaller. At the local café, you’re sure to meet two or three supporters who will talk to you about Sporting.”
Khazri also highlighted the close-knit nature of the club: “As Frédéric Hantz [Bastia coach from 2010 to 2014] used to say, we do everything to integrate the new players, but it’s up to them to take a big step towards Corsica. There’s always this desire to protect ourselves, to form a united group to fight the others.”
Bordeaux head into the match in fine form, having won all three of their opening games. They currently sit top of the Ligue 1 table and will look to extend their perfect start under new manager Willy Sagnol.
Bastia, on the other hand, face a stern test against a confident Bordeaux side. The Corsicans will need to produce a strong performance to challenge a team that appears to have found early-season momentum.
