He showed up past midnight in the auditorium of the Stade de France. Eyes brighter than usual. The Nantes coach seemed almost knocked out after a victory in the Coupe de France which he did not dare to hope for too much.
How do you feel after such success?
Antoine Kombouare. I live a sick thing! Even in my wildest dreams, I would never have dared to imagine coaching this club let alone lifting a trophy with them. So I thank all my staff and especially the players. They have been wonderful and exceptional.
What was this final played on?
We had to stay strong despite the pressure. We came from nowhere. Remember a year ago, we almost died. And there, we are going to play the Europa League next year. And someone even called me back just before coming to see you that we were also going to compete in the Champions Trophy. It is exceptional, unique, miraculous. I also don’t forget our supporters who won the match in the stands. It is truly a shared communion.
What did you do at the final whistle?
It’s the first time that I let go so much after a victory. I went to see the players on the field and I also measure my luck. It is a privilege to be there.
Is this the greatest victory of your coaching career?
Yes. I would have traded all my previous wins for this one. When Ludovic Blas lifted the cup, I thought of my arrival in Nantes. I was 19 and I was nothing. This club allowed me to grow as a player and as a person. And today, as a coach, I win a title. I also thought of my glorious predecessors Claude Suaudeau or Raynald Denoueix. Without comparing myself to them, especially not because they are huge. I feel immense pride. It’s almost a miracle.