Valenciennes must secure a victory to maintain hope in avoiding relegation. Facing FC Nantes this Sunday for the 34th day of Ligue 1, the Northerners are aware that they are playing one of their final cards in the battle for survival. Coach Ariel Jacobs will need the contribution of all his players for the crucial phase of the championship.
Jean-Christophe Bahebeck, the PSG striker loaned to Valenciennes this season, understands the pressure and the need to step up to save the club. Despite a promising start in the northern derby last weekend, the Franco-Cameroonian has struggled to meet expectations placed upon him. He is candidly self-critical about his performance.
“I was trusted in the first part of the season, but unfortunately, I didn’t deliver as expected,” Bahebeck admits in comments relayed by the club’s official website. “During the break, I had an injury that kept me sidelined for several weeks, and then there was the arrival of Waris, who performed well. So, it’s normal that I wasn’t a starter or in the coach’s plans. When a team is performing, there’s no need to change it, and I understood that.”
Bahebeck acknowledges his efforts to return to form through hard work in training and making appearances when called upon. “Whether I start or come off the bench, the coach can rely on me. I won’t give up until the end,” he affirms.
Speaking about the team’s collective efforts and the upcoming match against Nantes, Bahebeck emphasizes the need to remain solid defensively and to take control of the game. “We must take our destiny into our own hands and do whatever it takes to secure the three points against Nantes,” he concludes.
Tags: Valenciennes, FC Nantes, Jean-Christophe Bahebeck, Ligue 1, survival, relegation battle, Ariel Jacobs
