Divock Origi Sought by FC Nantes as Career Stalls after AC Milan Exit
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A potential lifeline has emerged for veteran striker Divock Origi, as French club FC Nantes considers a move for the 30-year-old belgian international. Origi,recently released by AC Milan,could offer much-needed experience to a Nantes side struggling in the Ligue 1 standings.
The situation at Nantes is critical.The club currently sits in 17th place in the championship, facing a “persistent crisis of results,” and is actively seeking players capable of providing leadership and composure under pressure.
A Disappointing Stint in Italy
Origi’s time at AC Milan proved largely unsuccessful. Arriving on a free transfer from Liverpool in the summer of 2022, he hadn’t made an official appearance for the Rossoneri as May 28, 2023 – a 1-0 victory over Juventus. A subsequent loan spell at Nottingham Forest failed to revitalize his form, yielding a meager return of one goal and one assist in 22 matches.
“A return far too insufficient to revive a stalled career,” one analyst observed.
The club ultimately terminated his contract “by mutual agreement.” Reports from Italian media indicate Origi was earning over 300,000 euros monthly, a salary deemed unsustainable given his lack of playing time.Further complicating matters, The Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Origi declined potential transfer offers, reportedly due to tax concerns. He spent his final months with the club training independently, residing between Rome and Florence.
Nantes: A Potential Fit?
FC Nantes appears to be a logical destination for Origi, given their current needs. The club is specifically looking for players with experience navigating high-pressure situations, citing Anthony Lopes as an example of the type of profile they desire. Origi’s Champions League winning experience with Liverpool in 2019 certainly aligns with this requirement. His European pedigree could be invaluable to a Nantes squad grappling with “mental difficulties.”
Though, significant questions remain. The moast pressing concern is Origi’s current form, having been out of consistent action for over two years. Doubts linger regarding his pace and ability to regain his goal-scoring touch.
Financial and Tactical Considerations
Even as a free agent, Origi will likely need to adjust his salary expectations. FC Nantes simply cannot match the financial resources of AC Milan. Moreover, his playing style presents a tactical consideration. Origi is not a conventional “area scorer,” preferring to make runs and exploit transition opportunities – a factor Nantes’ coaching staff will need to integrate into their system.
The club’s pursuit of Origi represents a calculated gamble. While his experience and European success are appealing, his recent lack of form and financial demands present considerable hurdles. Whether the Belgian striker can recapture his former glory and provide the spark Nantes desperately needs remains to be seen.
