Francesco Farioli, the Italian coach of OGC Nice, has deliberately left the future of Algerian international Youcef Atal with the team shrouded in ambiguity. Amid legal complications, Farioli hinted that clarity on Atal’s status would emerge after his participation in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
The coach’s remarks, as reported by “Onze Mondial,” represent the first official response from the French Ligue 1 side following a French court’s verdict last Wednesday.
The court sentenced Atal to an 8-month suspended prison term and imposed a €45,000 fine in connection with one of his social media posts.
Atal, who hasn’t played for Nice since October 7 due to a suspension by the French team, is now set to feature in AFCON, according to Farioli.
The coach, while alluding to Atal’s contractual commitment with Nice, refrained from explicitly indicating the player’s role post-tournament.
“Youcef Atal is a player under contract with the club, and he will participate in the Africa Cup of Nations.
We will see when he comes back if he will be part of the team,” stated Farioli.
Focusing on the upcoming AFCON, Farioli emphasized, “Right now, this month is the African Cup of Nations, and after the tournament ends, we will see what developments will happen.”
Atal’s absence from Nice, coupled with legal issues, raises questions about his future with the French club.
The player, with a contract expiring on June 30, 2024, has the option to negotiate with other clubs since January 1. Rumors suggest potential interest from Besiktas, with the player’s departure from Nice becoming more likely.
Atal, who experienced suspension and public scrutiny, may opt for a fresh start away from the Ligue 1.
In a surprising turn, fellow Algerian international Rachid Ghezzal could play a role in Atal’s potential move.
Ghezzal, participating in the AFCON preparations, might act as an intermediary.
As the AFCON approaches, it remains to be seen whether Atal’s future unfolds before the end of the season or during the winter transfer window, offering the talented player a new chapter in his football journey.
