Dennis Appiah rates Saint‑Étienne atmosphere ahead of heated derby

Dennis Appiah, the 34‑year‑old defender now with Caen, has weighed in on the atmospheres of AS Saint‑Étienne and FC Nantes ahead of their Ligue Two derby at Geoffroy‑Guichard on Saturday at 20:45. The Saint‑Étienne side sit top of the league before the tenth matchday.

Appiah’s journey between the two clubs

Having begun his professional career at FC Nantes before moving to AS Saint‑Étienne, Appiah knows both stadiums intimately. He now plies his trade for Caen, bringing a wealth of experience from his former homes.

Stakes and fan celebrations at the Chaudron

The match will be played in the iconic Geoffroy‑Guichard, expected to be packed to the rafters. Magic Fans will also mark their 35‑year anniversary on the night, adding extra colour to the occasion.

"Si je dois choisir entre les deux ambiances, je l’ai toujours dit, Saint‑Étienne, c’est un cran au-dessus. Parce qu’il y a un peu plus de personnes dans le stade. Et puis, il y a deux kops qui se répondent", the Caen defender explained, placing Saint‑Étienne above his former club.

Appiah cites the 2‑1 victory over Olympique Lyonnais, secured by a Lucas Stassin double, as the pinnacle of the Chaudron’s atmosphere.

FC Nantes supporters will not be permitted to travel for the fixture. Their coach, Gregory Poirier, described the trip to the Forez region as “a mountain”, insisting there is no fear in facing the leader.

Reflecting on his career, Appiah remembers the promotion with Metz in 2024, after a 2‑1 first‑leg win and a 2‑2 second‑leg draw where Ibrahima Wadji scored in extra time.

His toughest memory remains the 2024‑2025 relegation and the missed comeback against Nice in the playoffs.

Appiah also highlighted his bond with former Saint‑Étienne coach Laurent Batlles, who had urged his signing, and a three‑and‑a‑half‑year stay in a house shared with the Romeyer family, whose son attended his wedding, linking his personal life to both clubs.