Mathieu Gorgelin Embracing Midseason Promotion to Le Havre’s No. 1 Goalkeeper

Here's what Gorgelin had to say when speaking to Ligue 1 McDonald's:

At 34, this is the first time in your career you’ve started six straight Ligue 1 matches…

(Cuts in) That’s right! I had started five in a row with Lyon, but that was over two seasons. I played the last three of 2017-18—against Troyes, Strasbourg and Nice—when we secured a Champions League spot. Then the first two games of the next season against Amiens and Reims.

How does it feel to finally have a run of games?

Honestly, I’m really enjoying it. I’m keeping things calm but staying ambitious. It’s a great challenge to help the club fight for survival.

Do you feel like you’ve brought something different to the team?

Maybe, but it’s not just me. We’ve had a few additions that really helped us get more control of the game. That 5-1 loss to Marseille was rough. I think it gave us all a bit of a jolt.

Still, your presence seems to have made an impact…

I’ve always brought energy to the squad—even as the No. 2. Now I get to show that on the pitch. I haven’t changed who I am, but of course, the situation’s different now. My goal is still the same: do my job and help the team.

It’s your first time becoming the No. 1 goalkeeper midseason…

Exactly, and I’m doing my best with it. I’ve stayed the same person. I work the same way with Arthur (Desmas) and Nicolas (Douchez), because the personal connection is really important to me. I’ve waited for a shot like this, so I’m going to enjoy every minute.

Did you think a chance like this would come at 34?

Yes and no. You always prepare just in case, but I didn’t expect the order to change. I knew my role: train hard and support the starter. But in football, anything can happen. You’ve got to be ready when the opportunity comes.

Has becoming the No. 1 goalkeeper changed your weekly routine?

Not really. We train the same way. The only thing that’s different is matchday warmups—Arthur and I just switched roles.

No lighter training or extra focus on recovery?

Nope. I train just as much as I did before. That kind of adjustment usually only happens with clubs in European competitions. When Arthur was starting, he trained just like I did. Now it’s my turn. And yes, we still take a ton of shots at the end of sessions (laughs). Gotta keep the rhythm.

Do you talk more with the coach now that you’re starting?

Not especially. Most feedback still comes from Nico. I do get more input tactically now that I’m in the lineup, but otherwise, it’s the same. Training hasn’t changed.

Do you feel like you’ve improved over the last two seasons, even as a backup?

For sure. Maybe a bit slower, but I’ve definitely progressed. I’ve worked on my game, watched a lot of matches, and learned from different goalkeeper coaches. You can always improve—no matter your role or age.

What areas have you improved most?

A bit of everything—technical and physical. Each coach brings different ideas that help you evolve. I’ve adapted along the way, and that keeps you growing, even late in your career.

How did you find out you were becoming the No. 1 goalkeeper?

Nico told me in a one-on-one meeting. The head coach didn’t say it directly. Nico and I have a good relationship, so it felt natural that it came from him.

Did you speak with Arthur Desmas afterward?

Of course. I went straight to him. It wasn’t a long talk, but I wanted to be upfront and honest. I didn’t want anything to change between us. We’re professionals, and we’ve built something real over the last couple of years. The most important thing is to stay united. I know he’s supporting me.

You took up sea fishing after arriving in Le Havre. Getting any better?

Definitely! I don’t go as often as I’d like, but I’ve met some local fishermen who’ve shared great tips. Just like in football, you pick up something from everyone. I’ve improved a lot.

Have you gotten any teammates into it?

Yeah! Oualid El Hajjam came with me once—he’s actually better than me now (laughs). I also got Aloïs Confais into it. We’re really close. But yeah, with our schedule, it’s tough to get out as much as we’d like.

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