Paul Nardi
AUX
Makes six saves on debut
Nardi made six saves on his Auxerre debut in Sunday's 3-1 win at Le Havre after replacing Mamadou Diop in the starting XI. Coach Will Still said after the game per Morning Foot. "Regarding Paul's start, I want to say it isn't a choice made at anyone's expense, but only for the balance of the team. We had been lacking defensive structure for several matches. Paulo came to the club for all his experience, his voice and what he has been through."
Analysis: Nardi took Mamadou Diop's place in goal at Le Havre and responded with six saves as Auxerre won 3-1. Will Still said the change was about defensive structure and not a punishment for Diop, but Diop had conceded 16 goals in the first six league games and kept just one clean sheet. Still also said Diop "is not being cast aside," so the battle for the job could stay open, though Nardi is likely to keep his place after a strong debut and a win.
Signs with Auxerre
Nardi has signed a two-year deal with AJ Auxerre through June 2028, the club announced.
Analysis: Nardi is a 32-year-old goalkeeper with nearly 350 career appearances, including spells at Monaco, Rennes, Cercle Brugge, Lorient, Gent, and most recently QPR, where he started 45 Championship matches last season. A former France U21 international, his arrival comes just after longtime starter Donovan Leon departed for Saudi Arabia's Abha Club, and with the number 1 shirt in hand, Nardi looks set to be handed the job as Auxerre's new starter over Mamadou Diop, who joined earlier this summer from Grenoble.
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