Jonathan Clauss delivered the winning blow against Strasbourg, then spoke just as directly about why the Nice captain’s armband now belongs to Axel Witsel.
The Ligue 1 news
Nice beat Strasbourg 2-1 on Sunday, making it two consecutive Ligue 1 victories for the Aiglons after an awkward opening to the campaign. They had gone winless across their first four league matches, drawing twice and losing twice, before finding momentum either side of the international break.
Clauss was central to the home success after the three-week pause. The France international struck the decisive goal in the 81st minute, blasting a powerful effort beneath the crossbar after combining with Sofiane Diop.
It was also a second win in two matches since Witsel took over as captain. Clauss had initially inherited the role following Dante’s retirement, with Morgan Sanson also having worn the armband last season, but the right-back quickly handed it to the experienced Belgian midfielder following his summer arrival.
Witsel, 37, has the stature and experience needed for the responsibility, Clauss said. The 14-cap France player insisted he remains fully committed without the armband and still acts as a link between the squad and the coach.
“I am focused on my job and I am involved in the way I should be, whether I wear the armband or not,” Clauss said. “Axel has the shoulders for it. He has the experience and the perspective required for that role. I can still be a voice for the dressing room and the staff without being captain.”
Clauss said the change has improved communication around the group. He admitted that his demanding character, towards himself as well as his team-mates, may have been amplified while he was captain.
“People may have thought, ‘He is the captain, he is going to overdo it,’” he said. “But I have always been like that: demanding, sometimes annoying. Perhaps the armband put too much emphasis on that side of me, and maybe I tired people out. Now the communication is healthier, easier and works better.”
