Poirier backs Carlgren for Dunkerque after clean sheet against Reims
FC Nantes coach Grégory Poirier has confirmed his goalkeeper selection for the club’s trip to Dunkerque this Saturday, opting for Patrik Carlgren after the Swede kept a clean sheet in a 0‑0 draw with Stade de Reims last Saturday in Ligue 2 round eight.
Carlgren's debut restores confidence
Patrik Carlgren was handed his first start of the season against Reims and delivered a flawless performance, denying the home side any goal. The Swedish keeper’s opportunistic display gave the defence a fresh surge of energy, which Poirier praised as a decisive factor. His clean sheet marked a stark contrast to the goals conceded in the opening fixtures.
Maxime Dupé, who has struggled since the campaign began, was relegated to the bench for the encounter. The coach observed that Dupé has shown slight improvement in recent training sessions but still lacks the consistency required for the starting role. Dupé’s recent matches have featured one or two situations where his level has not yet been fully recovered.
Poirier eyes continuity for the next match
In the post‑match press conference, Poirier explained that the change was not a rupture but a tactical choice. “Carlgren was opportunistic in this match, that remains to be confirmed,” he said, adding that Dupé “responds to the expectations in training” and will remain in the competition. He also stressed that “there is competition for every position” within the squad.
The coach stressed the need for confidence and fresh impetus, stating, “Patrik could bring new energy to the position, and sometimes you have to give a player a breather.” He warned that players emerging from illness retain a degree of fragility, which must be managed carefully. Poirier hinted that this approach could help the team “breathe a little” and regain stability.
Looking ahead, Poirier confirmed that Carlgren is likely to start the ninth‑round Ligue 2 fixture against Dunkerque, scheduled for Saturday at 14:00. He added that the decision will be reassessed after the match, but the current plan is to maintain the momentum generated at Reims. A positive result could see the Swedish keeper retained for the foreseeable future.
Poirier concluded by reminding that competition exists for every spot in the squad, and that the upcoming game will test whether Carlgren’s performance can become a lasting feature of FC Nantes’ goalkeeping options. A win against Dunkerque would cement the Swede’s place and restore stability to the back line.