We played the appeasement this week at Racing 92. Via a press release, its president Jacky Lorenzetti renewed his confidence in Laurent Travers, under contract until 2024 but of which he had publicly invited to think about the strategy after the quack in the final of the European Cup a week ago.
On the occasion of a press point, the head coach, for his part, played down the defeat against the English of Exeter (31-27): "A final can be won, of course it hurts the head, it lacks this star but when we are able to eliminate the European champion (Saracens) in the semifinals, to win in Clermont in the quarter, to put Exeter in difficulty, who is in his sixth final in five years , it's very positive over time.
Especially since Racing was present again (in the final), as in 2016 and 2018. It is not due to chance but to the intrinsic quality of the team.
So if there must be a questioning in these conditions ... "
"We feel that this is a match not to be missed"
But there is no doubt that a setback this Saturday during the derby against Stade Français would be very badly experienced internally.
Firstly because this duel is close to the heart of Jacky Lorenzetti as he confided to us last year: “I would not sell a Top 14 final against a victory against Stade Français, but it is really an important match, my flagship match.
»And because it would plumb, this time around, clearly the atmosphere after the European disillusionment.
"We feel that this is an important match, not to be missed for the president, the players trained at the club, everyone", also loose the 3rd line Baptiste Chouzenoux.
"As vice-champions of Europe, we have a status to be respected throughout the season, believes, for his part, winger Louis Dupichot.
We have to focus on ourselves and stay united.
"
For this 6th day of Top 14, Laurent Travers will have to tap into the training center due in particular to the absence of nine internationals (against six at the Stade Français).
“We are the most impacted club in the championship,” says the manager.
But it's up to us to respond!
"
