The return of Lucas Chevalier to the Parc des Princes, this Saturday against Le Havre, aroused a certain curiosity. His first appearance in front of the Parisian public since the controversy over a political like in early November fueled questions. Many expected a reaction from the stands, in particular from the Collectif Ultra Paris (CUP), usually sensitive to these questions. Finally, the scene observed during the warm-up was surprising.
A calm welcome for Chevalier who stands out
When Chevalier entered the pitch for the warm-up, no hostility came from the corners. No whistles, no banners. The CUP, which had suggested that it was considering action, ultimately did nothing: neither hostile gesture nor visible message. A posture which contrasts with the tension of the days following the like affair, and which surprised the Park.
This calm is a continuation of recent weeks. The goalkeeper explained himself publicly, speaking about an involuntary gesture and denouncing the media hype of which he said he was the victim. PSG had exchanges with him, and internally as with the French team, the matter seemed to have settled. In the stands, this lack of reaction reflects a desire not to make things worse. The CUP, committed to social issues, seems to have considered that the player’s explanations were sufficient.
A Park that prefers to wait
This attitude leaves the door open to a return to normal. The absence of a hostile gesture does not constitute absolution, but the signal is clear: dialogue counts more than rapid condemnation. The CUP, which remains attentive, has never ruled out the idea of speaking directly with Chevalier. Individual initiatives remain possible, but nothing indicates a desire to target him publicly. For him, returning to the Park without apparent tension allows him to refocus on football.
This first contact temporarily calms a controversy which had gone beyond the framework of sport. Chevalier knows, however, that the terrain remains slippery. His performances, his behavior and possible future exchanges with supporters will weigh in the future. For the moment, this return without whistles marks a step: the Park is giving him his chance, preferring to judge on the ground rather than on the networks.
