OL-Fenerbahçe Mattéo Guendouzi gets harsh verdict after league spot

Fenerbahçe clinched a Ligue des champions place with a 2‑1 win over Olympique Lyonnais in the OL‑Fenerbahçe clash on Wednesday evening at the Groupama Stadium, and midfielder Mattéo Guendouzi refused to shrink away despite being shouted at by a crowd of some 60 000 fans before the match.

Guendouzi had provoked Lyon supporters with excessive banter before the game and was involved in a scuffle in the tunnel that leads to the dressing rooms. He later faced the mixed zone of journalists and defended his actions. “Si tu veux taquiner, alors ça taquine dans les deux sens,” he told reporters.

Taunts and tunnel clash

“Quand vous avez 60 000 personnes qui insultent votre famille, votre mère, vos enfants, même avant le match…”, Guendouzi said, recalling the barrage of abuse he endured. He added that the crowd had insulted his mother and family, and that he had always been open about supporting OM. “Le signe Jul, il n’y a rien de méchant,” he insisted, defending his right to celebrate.

The incident has drawn severe criticism over the past two days, with many observers branding his conduct as irresponsible. Et the backlash has intensified after video footage of the tunnel fight circulated online.

Mickaël Landreau calls Guendouzi a perpetual provocateur

Guendouzi, 27, joined the Turkish side this summer, adding another chapter to his peripatetic career. Il has yet to secure a regular starting place, and his recent actions have not helped his reputation.

Critics and future prospects

Former goalkeeper Mickaël Landreau, who oversaw Guendouzi at Lorient in 2017‑2018, said the midfielder left a poor impression. “C’est insupportable de le manager !” he declared on the Late Football Club programme, adding that Guendouzi has been a perpetual provocateur since his youth. He also reminded that Guendouzi’s talent is undeniable, but his short stays at clubs have limited his impact.

The ex‑coach of the Merlus, now a Canal+ consultant, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Il y en a qui vont dire qu’il est gentil, mais non ! Quand il n’est pas titulaire, il te fout la merde à l’entraînement avec ses propres coéquipiers.” He described the behaviour as complex on a human level.

Landreau brands Guendouzi a perpetual provocateur after Lyon clash

If Guendouzi wishes to return to the French national team, he will have to temper his provocations, according to the critics. Si he can soften his approach, his talent may still earn him another chance at international football.