Moses Simon, the dynamic Nigerian forward, recently experienced a heartwarming homecoming to his former club, FC Nantes, where he spent six successful seasons before transferring to Paris FC this summer. The occasion, a friendly match between Nantes and Paris FC, transformed into a tribute to Simon’s contributions to the club. Nantes, recognizing the impact Simon had during his tenure, orchestrated a special ceremony to honour their former star. The Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes’ home ground, witnessed a touching display of appreciation as Simon, now donning the colours of Paris FC, was welcomed back with open arms.
The pre-match proceedings saw Simon receiving a guard of honour from both teams, a testament to the respect he earned during his time at Nantes. The stadium erupted in applause as Simon walked onto the pitch, the fans acknowledging his dedication and memorable performances. The club presented him with a commemorative plaque, a tangible symbol of his lasting legacy at Nantes. This gesture underscored the deep connection between Simon and the club, highlighting the mutual respect and admiration they shared. The tribute wasn’t merely a formality; it was a genuine expression of gratitude for Simon’s unwavering commitment and the joy he brought to the fans.
Simon, visibly moved by the reception, expressed his gratitude on social media, thanking the club and its supporters for the warm welcome. He acknowledged the honour of the tribute and the special feeling of playing once again in front of the passionate Nantes fans. The reunion with his former teammates added another layer of sentimentality to the occasion, reinforcing the strong bonds he forged during his time at the club. The friendly match, while resulting in a 3-2 victory for Paris FC, took on a secondary role to the main event: the celebration of Moses Simon.
Simon’s journey at Nantes began in 2019 with a loan move from Levante. His performances quickly convinced the club to make the transfer permanent a year later. Over the course of his six seasons, Simon became an integral part of the Nantes squad, consistently delivering impactful performances and contributing significantly to the team’s success. He amassed an impressive 201 appearances, scoring 37 goals and providing 42 assists, statistics that reflect his consistent attacking threat and creative playmaking abilities. Beyond the numbers, Simon’s tireless work ethic, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to the team endeared him to the fans and solidified his place as a fan favourite.
Simon’s time at Nantes was punctuated by several key moments, most notably the Coupe de France triumph in 2022. He played a crucial role in the team’s cup run, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches. Furthermore, Simon was instrumental in helping Nantes avoid relegation on multiple occasions, demonstrating his value to the team even in challenging circumstances. His contributions extended beyond the domestic league, as he also featured prominently in Nantes’ back-to-back Coupe de France final appearances in 2022 and 2023, further cementing his legacy at the club.
The 2024/25 season proved to be another successful campaign for Simon, as he contributed eight goals and 10 assists, helping Nantes secure a comfortable 13th-place finish in Ligue 1, well clear of the relegation zone. This consistent output, even in his final season with the club, underscored his enduring quality and his ability to maintain a high level of performance. Simon’s departure undoubtedly leaves a void in the Nantes squad, but his impact on the club and its supporters will be remembered for years to come. The tribute he received serves as a fitting testament to his dedication, his contribution to the team’s success, and the indelible mark he left on the club’s history.
