Ivorian midfielder Patrick Zabi appears to have lost his place in Karel Geraerts rotation at Stade de Reims in France’s Ligue 2.
After sitting on the bench against Rodez, the future Paris FC player was completely left out of the squad for the away match at Guingamp.
When asked on Thursday, the Reims coach justified this absence as a purely sporting decision, citing his competitors’ current form and commitment in training.
By benching his Éléphanteau, Stade de Reims is sending a clear message. No special treatment will be granted despite his transfer already being finalized.
Geraerts now expects a proud response from his player for the rest of the season.
For Patrick Zabi, the challenge is simple but daunting. He must now prove that his heart is still in Reims before flying off to the capital.
