Relegation Confirmation for Ligue 1 Teams: Nantes and Ajaccio
The Ligue 1 season is a rollercoaster ride for every team, and it often results in relocations to lower divisions due to financial constraints or changes in the league structure. This year, two teams from France's top flight, Nantes and Ajaccio, have both experienced this transformation.
Nantes was originally relegated to Ligue 2 in 2019 after failing to qualify for the UEFA Europa League, but they were able to secure a spot back in the top tier by winning the Coupe de la Ligue in 2020. Despite their success, however, Nantes had concerns about its finances, which led to them being placed on administrative hold by the French Football Federation (FFS). This meant that they would not be eligible to play in the Ligue 1 competition until next season.
In the meantime, Nantes made a significant move up to the second division. The club secured promotion to Ligue 2 with a win over Angers SCO in the first round of the domestic cup, earning them a place in the Ligue 1 promotion playoff. They faced off against Lille in the final, where they lost 1-0, leaving them at the bottom of the table with just one point.
However, the setback did not deter Nantes. In the following season, the club managed to turn things around and clinched a place in the promotion playoffs. After defeating Lille again, they defeated Paris Saint-Germain FC in the final, securing their place in the Ligue 1 promotion playoff.
Ajaccio also suffered a similar fate, as they were promoted to Ligue 1 after finishing second-last in the standings. However, the club struggled financially, and they were placed on administrative hold by the FFS in late 2020. As a result, Ajaccio failed to reach the top tier of football and returned to Ligue 2, where they achieved great success under new management.
The story of Nantes and Ajaccio illustrates how even in times of financial hardship, perseverance can lead to unexpected triumphs. While Nantes may have been relegated, they remained determined to climb the ladder and eventually reached the top tier of European football. Similarly, Ajaccio continued to work hard despite facing financial challenges, ultimately achieving success on the pitch.