Didier Digard
{{short description|French footballer (born 1986)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Didier Digard
| image = Didier Digard 18-10-2008 1.jpg
| caption = Digard playing for Middlesbrough in 2008
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1986|7|12|df=y}}{{cite news |url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/FootballFicheJoueur21793.html |title=Didier Digard |newspaper=L'Équipe |location=Paris |access-date=9 March 2025 |language=fr}}
| birth_place = Gisors, Eure, France
| position = Defensive midfielder
| currentclub = Le Havre (manager)
| youthyears1 = 1995–1996
| youthclubs1 = Gisors Bézu
| youthyears2 = 1998–2003
| youthclubs2 = Le Havre
| years1 = 2003–2007
| clubs1 = Le Havre
| caps1 = 72
| goals1 = 3
| years2 = 2007–2008
| clubs2 = Paris Saint-Germain
| caps2 = 16
| goals2 = 0
| years3 = 2008–2011
| clubs3 = Middlesbrough
| caps3 = 32
| goals3 = 0
| years4 = 2010–2011
| clubs4 = → Nice (loan)
| caps4 = 12
| goals4 = 1
| years6 = 2011–2015
| clubs6 = Nice
| caps6 = 133
| goals6 = 3
| years7 = 2015–2017
| clubs7 = Betis
| caps7 = 8
| goals7 = 0
| years8 = 2016–2017
| clubs8 = → Osasuna (loan)
| caps8 = 3
| goals8 = 0
| years9 = 2018
| clubs9 = Lorca
| caps9 = 6
| goals9 = 0
| totalcaps = 282
| totalgoals = 7
| nationalyears1 = 2007–2008
| nationalteam1 = France U21
| nationalcaps1 = 10
| nationalgoals1 = 0
| manageryears1 = 2021–2024
| managerclubs1 = Nice B
| manageryears2 = 2023
| managerclubs2 = Nice (caretaker)
| manageryears3 = 2024–
| managerclubs3 = Le Havre
}}
Didier Frédéric Thierry Digard (born 12 July 1986) is a French professional football manager and former player who is the head coach of Le Havre. As a player, he was a defensive midfielder.{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/futbol/lorca/2018/01/10/5a56034e268e3e0c648b4577.html |title=Didier Digard y Nasuti refuerzan la medular y la defensa lorquina |language=es |publisher=Marca |date=10 January 2018}}
Club career
=Le Havre=
Digard started his career at Gisors Bézu, joining the academy at six years old. Digard revealed he began playing football around the time when Marseille was crowned European Champion.{{cite news|title=Stadito interviewe Didier Digard : " Je n'ai pas de regrets "|url=https://stadito.fr/2017/03/05/stadito-interview-didier-digard/|publisher=Stadio Football|language=French|date=5 March 2017|accessdate=27 February 2020}} He stayed at the academy until eleven when the Le Havre's academy invited him to a tournament and trained with the club. Digard impressed the Le Havre's academy that they offered him a contract, leading him to join the club at age twelve. While progressing through the academy, Digard revealed that he had a behaviour problems, getting into fights but the club's then coach Mohamed Sall convinced him to stay and later credited him for understanding and believing in him. Digard started out playing as a striker before playing in a defensive midfield, a position he played throughout his career. Digard progressed through the club's academy before turning professional at eighteen.
On 29 October 2004, Digard made his debut for the club in a 1–0 win over Dijon, making his only appearance of the season and in his first season, he made 15 league appearances. In his second season, Digard scored his first goal against Dijon in a 2–1 win on 31 March 2006. In the next game on 7 April 2006, Digard scored his second goal against Grenoble in a 4–1 win. In his third season, Digard scored his third goal in a 2–0 win over Tours on 12 January 2007. He played over 70 league games for the club.
=Paris Saint-Germain=
In June 2007, Digard was strongly linked with a move from Le Havre to the Premier League clubs, with Aston Villa, Reading and West Ham United interested.{{cite news |date=28 June 2007|url=http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=473729|title=French battle to keep starlet|publisher=Sky Sports|accessdate=28 June 2007}}{{dead link|date=December 2016|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}{{cite news|title=PSG land Le Havre youngster|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11806/2493978/psg-land-le-havre-youngster|publisher=Sky Sports|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, he eventually opted to stay in France, and signed a three-year deal with Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on 3 July 2007 for a transfer fee of €2.5 million.{{cite news|date=3 July 2007|url=http://www.football365.fr/infos_clubs/psg/story_173735_Paris-a-convaincu-Digard.shtml|title=Paris a convaincu Digard|publisher=football365.fr|accessdate=3 July 2007|language=French|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080111124550/http://www.football365.fr/infos_clubs/psg/story_173735_Paris-a-convaincu-Digard.shtml|archivedate=11 January 2008}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-transfere-au-psg.html|title=Didier Digard transféré au PSG|publisher=Le Havre AC|language=French|date=3 July 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219055511/http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-transfere-au-psg.html|archivedate=19 February 2020|url-status=live}} Upon joining the club, manager Paul Le Guen said: "I had one look at Digard and instantly decided that he was the right sort of player for us. He still has a lot to learn but he definitely has potential. It is up to him to exploit his potential and it is up to us to help him develop it."{{cite news|title=Didier Digard|url=https://www.eyefootball.com/news/164/Didier-Digard.html|publisher=Eye Football|date=1 August 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Digard made his debut for PSG in their opening match of the season, in a draw against Sochaux on 4 August 2007.{{cite news|title=Paris SG 0–0 Sochaux|url=https://www.planetepsg.com/6111-ligue_1-match-psg-sochaux.html|publisher=Planete PSG|language=French|date=4 August 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}} He started well for the side, playing in the defensive midfield position at the first team.{{cite news|title=Digard - "Mon intégration s'est bien passée"|url=https://www.planetepsg.com/news-8288-leclub-digard_mon_integration_sest_bien_passee.html|publisher=Plante PSG|language=French|date=30 September 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Le PSG, toujours K.O.|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/football/2007/10/10/02003-20071010ARTSPO90121-le_psg_toujours_ko.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=10 October 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Ce si cher banc parisien|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/football/2007/09/13/02003-20070913ARTSPO90085-ce_si_cher_banc_parisien.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=13 September 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, injuries and lack of first team opportunities plagued his time at the club, leading to a frustrating spell at the club.{{cite news|title=Digard - "Prouver que j'ai ma place"|url=https://www.planetepsg.com/news-8665-club-digard_prouver_que_jai_ma_place.html|publisher=Planete PSG|language=French|date=24 November 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Paris sur sa lancée?|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/football/2008/01/17/02003-20080117ARTSPO00534-paris-sur-sa-lancee-.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=17 January 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard a repris|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2008/02/19/01011-20080219FILSPO00557-digard-a-repris.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=19 February 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Pauleta out 10 jours|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2008/03/17/01011-20080317FILSPO00762-pauleta-out-jours.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=17 March 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard en centre spécialisé|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/flash-actu/2008/04/12/01011-20080412FILSPO00457-digard-en-centre-specialise.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=12 April 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Despite this, Digard went on to make nineteen appearances for the side.
Digard voiced his frustration over his delayed move to Boro and blamed the club's board's "incompetence" for the delay. This resulted in his suspension by PSG.{{cite news |title=PSG suspend Digard |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11680/3770040/ |publisher=Sky Sports |date=3 August 2008 |accessdate=27 June 2012}} Despite leaving the club on bad terms, Digard, nevertheless, said: "It was a milestone in my career, a great springboard. Despite the long injury I experienced there, I retain a lot of positive, it is an adventure that has brought me a lot in life."{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20033/digard-evoque-son-passage-au-psg|title=DIGARD ÉVOQUE SON PASSAGE AU PSG|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=27 March 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224195539/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20033/digard-evoque-son-passage-au-psg|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
=Middlesbrough=
File:Didier Digard 18-10-2008 2.jpg
On 4 July 2008, Digard signed for Middlesbrough on a four-year contract after the club agreed a €5 million (£4 million) deal with PSG. Boro had targeted him since June 2008.{{cite news|title=Boro set to snatch Digard|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-set-to-snatch-digard-1471040|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 June 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11680/3776847/digard-completes-boro-move|title=Digard completes Boro move|publisher=Sky Sports|date=4 July 2008|accessdate=5 July 2008}} In the process of signing with Middlesbrough, Digard rejected overtures move from Portsmouth and Monaco.[https://web.archive.org/web/20241215041911/http://www.sport.setanta.com/en/Sport/News/Football/2008/07/09/Prem-Digard-on-Boro-/ Prem: Digard on Boro – Setanta Sports] Upon joining the club, he said about the move: "I actually like the challenge. I like English football because it is physically challenging and that suits my game, so I'm not really scared. I'm looking forward to it and I can't wait to start playing and to start getting into the challenge. In midfield I have to help stop the other team's forwards and relaunch the game, so that we can counter-attack. I think to be physical, that's a quality, not a bad thing. You can have technical players, people who are mentally able, but to make a team complete you must have people who are strong."{{cite news|title=Digard is no French fancy|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/digard-is-no-french-fancy-1473406|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 August 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Digard made his Middlesbrough debut during the first fixture of the 2008–09 Premier League season replacing Tuncay in the 72nd minute in the 2–1 victory against Tottenham Hotspur at the Riverside Stadium. He made his first contribution of note in the 86th minute of the same game, when his wayward shot turned into an assist when it was deflected goalwards by Mido, a goal which turned out to be the winner.{{cite news|title=Middlesbrough 2 Tottenham Hotspur 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/middlesbrough-2-tottenham-1-1473688|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=17 August 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} In a match against Yeovil Town in the League Cup, Digard scored a 30-yard goal and the score ended up 5–1 to Middlesbrough.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/7576396.stm|title=Middlesbrough 5–1 Yeovil Town|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 August 2008|accessdate=2 November 2009}} After another substitute appearance in the 2–1 away defeat to Liverpool, he, once again, came off the bench in the 2–1 home win against Stoke City, which his misfire shot turned into an assist, with the ball falling to Tuncay to score the winner.{{cite news|title=Boro 2, Stoke 1 - Now we know how hard it is|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/boro-2-stoke-1---3727584|publisher=Gazette Live|date=1 September 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} During a 2–1 loss against Portsmouth on 13 September 2008, Digard suffered a knee injury and had to be substituted in the 70th minute.{{cite news|title=Injuries rock Boro midfield plans|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/injuries-rock-boro-midfield-plans-3728073|publisher=Gazette Live|date=15 September 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} But he quickly returned to training shortly after.{{cite news|title=Digard set for quick return to action|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/digard-set-quick-return-action-3728160|publisher=Gazette Live|date=17 September 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Since joining the club, Digard was involved in the first team for the side, playing in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=Boro 0, Chelsea 5 - Where were all the leaders?|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/boro-0-chelsea-5---3727050|publisher=Gazette Live|date=20 October 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard destined to be a hit - Arca|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/digard-destined-hit---arca-3724656|publisher=Gazette Live|date=13 December 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Boro chase Belgian duo Defour and Witsel|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-chase-belgian-duo-defour-3726094|publisher=Gazette Live|date=25 November 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, in mid–December, he suffered a groin injury that kept him for almost a month.{{cite news|title=Defender Hoyte sidelined after cartilage surgery|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/defender-hoyte-sidelined-after-cartilage-3724685|publisher=Gazette Live|date=15 December 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Striker Mido wins praise|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/striker-mido-wins-praise-3724968|publisher=Gazette Live|date=22 December 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 10 January 2009 Digard returned from injury, starting a match before being substituted in the 65th minute, in a 1–1 draw against Sunderland.{{cite news|title=Boro 1 Sunderland 1|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/boro-1-sunderland-1-3723345|publisher=Gazette Live|date=10 January 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, on 17 January 2009, Digard was sent off against West Bromwich Albion for a tackle on Borja Valero, resulting a 3–0 loss.{{cite news|title=West Brom 3 Boro 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/west-brom-3-boro-0-3723586|publisher=Gazette Live|date=17 January 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} After a serving three match suspension, he made his return on 7 February 2009, starting the match before being substituted in the 60th minute, in a 1–0 loss against Manchester City.{{cite news|title=Middle men thin on the ground|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/middle-men-thin-ground-3723602|publisher=Gazette Live|date=19 January 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Manchester City 1 Boro 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/manchester-city-1-boro-0-3722208|publisher=Gazette Live|date=7 February 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} But his return was short–lived when in a 0–0 draw against Wigan on 21 February 2009, Digard was involved in a challenge by Lee Cattermole and was stretchered off midway through the first half suffering an injury to his medial ligaments in his right knee as well as a rupture to the quadriceps muscle in his left leg.{{cite news|title=Boro suffer Digard blow|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/4964469|publisher=Sky Sports|date=23 February 2009|accessdate=27 June 2012}} During the same month, Digard insisted in an interview that he had no regrets about his move to Middlesbrough, having settled at Middlesbrough.{{cite news|title=Digard – No regrets|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/4951388|publisher=Sky Sports|date=20 February 2009|accessdate=27 June 2012}}
{{cite news|title=Digard our for several weeks after Catt's tackle|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/digard-several-weeks-after-catts-3722791|publisher=Gazette Live|date=23 February 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Following the three-month injury lay-off, Digard returned to the team squad as an unused substitute in a 0–0 draw against Fulham on 18 April 2009.{{cite news|title=Boro players can't wait for Fulham clash - Southgate|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-players-cant-wait-fulham-3720382|publisher=Gazette Live|date=17 April 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 26 April 2009, Digard returned to action, coming on a substitute for Tony McMahon after 73 minutes in a 2–0 loss against Arsenal.{{cite news|title=Arsenal 2 Boro 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/arsenal-2-boro-0-3720720|publisher=Gazette Live|date=26 April 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} At the end of the season, Middlesbrough were relegated to the Championship after 11 successive years in the Premier League.{{cite news|title=Boro lose 2-1 and are relegated|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/local-news/boro-lose-2-1-relegated-3721720|publisher=Gazette Live|date=24 May 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} At the end of the 2008–09 season, he went on to make twenty–one appearances in all competitions.
Digard made his first appearance of the 2009–10 season against Sheffield United in the opening game of the season, starting a match before being substituted in the 42nd minute, as they drew 0–0.{{cite news|title=Middlesbrough 0–0 Sheffield United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8185178.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 August 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, during the match, he suffered a groin strain that kept him out for a month.{{cite news|title=Boro dealt major injury blow|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-dealt-major-injury-blow-3715554|publisher=Gazette Live|date=8 August 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 19 September 2009 Digard returned to the first team as a substitute, in a 5–0 loss against West Bromwich Albion.{{cite news|title=Middlesbrough 0–5 West Bromwich Albion|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8251605.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 September 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} In a match against Derby County on 20 October 2009, he set up a goal for Adam Johnson, who scored twice, in a 2–0 win.{{cite news|title=The big match lowdown - Boro 2, Derby County 0|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/big-match-lowdown---boro-3713909|publisher=Gazette Live|date=20 October 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, Digard soon found his first team opportunities limited for the side, due to rotation change under the new management of Gordon Strachan.{{cite news|title=Players fired up to claim Boro place - Rhys Williams|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/players-fired-up-claim-boro-3714134|publisher=Gazette Live|date=28 October 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Jeremie Aliadiere on road back to fitness|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jeremie-aliadiere-road-back-fitness-3711975|publisher=Gazette Live|date=23 December 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} He soon faced his own injury concern along the way.{{cite news|title=Boro can't just rely on Johnson, says Strachan|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boro-cant-just-rely-johnson-3712350|publisher=Gazette Live|date=6 November 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Adam Johnson joins growing Boro injury list|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/adam-johnson-joins-growing-boro-3711705|publisher=Gazette Live|date=14 December 2009|accessdate=27 February 2020}} By the time Digard departed Middlesbrough on loan, he made nine appearances for the side.{{cite news|title=On Reflection: Didier Digard - a fragile enforcer who fell well short of the hype|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reflection-didier-digard-fragile-enforcer-13021787|publisher=Gazette Live|date=12 May 2017|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
=Nice=
File:DidierDigardOgcn.JPG on 22 September 2013.]]
Digard joined French Ligue 1 club Nice on loan for six months on 8 January 2010,{{cite web|title=Didier Digard prêté à Nice|url=http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=5995|publisher=OGC Nice|accessdate=8 January 2010|language=French|date=8 January 2010|url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100121171719/http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=5995|archivedate=21 January 2010}} having been limited to 34 appearances for Middlesbrough due to a series of injuries.{{cite web |title=Middlesbrough's Didier Digard completes Nice loan move|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/8448418.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|accessdate=23 December 2011|date=8 January 2010}}
{{cite news|last=Wilson|first=Scott|title=Digard makes Nice move|url=http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/4840840.Nice_confirm_signing_of_Digard_from_Boro/|accessdate=23 December 2011|newspaper=The Northern Echo|date=9 January 2010}} Upon joining the club, he said about the move: "I felt a real desire to get me to come from the coach, our discussions went very well. I'm the L1, I like watching a lot of matches on TV, I think Nice have a good team and that they deserve better than their current ranking. I know the style of this team and I think I can bring something more. I hope to pull them up by bringing the maximum of what I can do."{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5606/didier-digard-apporter-mon-envie-de-gagner|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " APPORTER MON ENVIE DE GAGNER "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 January 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220060457/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5606/didier-digard-apporter-mon-envie-de-gagner|archivedate=20 February 2020|url-status=live}}
Two days later on 10 January 2010, Digard made his Nice debut in the first round of the Coupe de France against Stade Plabennécois, starting the match before being substituted in the 73rd minute, in a 2–1 loss.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5610/plabennec-2-1-nice|title=PLABENNEC 2-1 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=10 January 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220060337/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5610/plabennec-2-1-nice|archivedate=20 February 2020|url-status=live}} Six days later on 16 January 2010, he made his league debut for the club, starting the match before being substituted in the 82nd minute, in a 1–0 loss against Montpellier.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5621/montpellier-1-0-nice|title=MONTPELLIER 1-0 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 January 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220061443/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5621/montpellier-1-0-nice|archivedate=20 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 30 January 2010, Digard scored his first goal in a 3–2 loss against Monaco. It was his first goal since 2007.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5646/monaco-3-2-nice|title=MONACO 3-2 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=30 January 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220062031/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5646/monaco-3-2-nice|archivedate=20 February 2020|url-status=live}} For his performance, he was named the club's January Player of the Month and another one for the club's February Player of the Month.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/en/news/5659/didier-digard-aiglon-de-janvier|title=DIDIER DIGARD AIGLON DE JANVIER|work=OGC Nice |language=French|date=9 February 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220054304/https://www.ogcnice.com/en/news/5659/didier-digard-aiglon-de-janvier|archivedate=20 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5708/didier-digard-aiglon-de-fevrier|title=DIDIER DIGARD AIGLON DE FÉVRIER|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=11 March 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Since joining the club, Digard quickly became a first team regular for the side, playing in the midfield position.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5630/montpellier-1-0-nice-revue-de-presse|title=MONTPELLIER 1-0 NICE : REVUE DE PRESSE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 January 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5665/nice-1-1-lille-revue-de-presse|title=NICE 1-1 LILLE : REVUE DE PRESSE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=9 February 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/5682/nice-1-0-lorient|title=NICE 1-0 LORIENT|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 February 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, he suffered a thigh injury that kept him out for the rest of the 2009–10 season.{{cite news|title=Nice : Digard indisponible quatre à six semaines|url=http://www.leparisien.fr/sports/football/nice-digard-indisponible-quatre-a-six-semaines-13-04-2010-885363.php|publisher=La Parisien|language=French|date=13 April 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard et Diakité incertains contre Paris|url=https://www.ogcnissa.com/fr.php?Rubrique=info&id_news=7353|publisher=OGC Nissa|language=French|date=15 March 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Despite this, Digard went on to make thirteen appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
Upon returning to Middlesbrough in the summer, Digard was told by manager Gordon Strachan that he was surplus to requirements and should seek a move elsewhere.{{cite web|title=Middlesbrough trio set for departure – Gordon Strachan|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/8890254.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|accessdate=23 December 2011|date=5 August 2010}} He rejoined Nice on loan in August 2010 for the rest of the 2010–11 season with a view to making the move permanent.{{cite web|title=Didier Digard prêté à Nice|url=http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=6376|publisher=OGC Nice|accessdate=23 December 2011|date=26 August 2010|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511181818/http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=6376|archivedate=11 May 2012}}
{{cite web|title=Boro Braced For Brisk Business|url=http://www.mfc.co.uk/page/news/latest/0,,1~2136710,00.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120805064015/http://www.mfc.co.uk/page/news/latest/0,,1~2136710,00.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 August 2012|publisher=Middlesbrough F.C.|accessdate=23 December 2011}} Digard's first game after signing for the club on a permanent basis came on 12 September 2010 against Bordeaux, where he came on as a substitute in early second half and set up the club's second goal of the game, in a 2–1 win.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6007/nice-2-1-bordeaux|title=NICE 2-1 BORDEAUX|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=12 September 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222200031/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6007/nice-2-1-bordeaux|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} After suffering injuries over the next three months,{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6051/nice-rennes-le-groupe-nicois|title= NICE - RENNES : LE GROUPE NIÇOIS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=24 September 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191454/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6051/nice-rennes-le-groupe-nicois|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6102/nice-st-etienne-le-groupe-nicois|title=NICE - ST ETIENNE : LE GROUPE NIÇOIS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 October 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191637/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6102/nice-st-etienne-le-groupe-nicois|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6167/lyon-nice-le-groupe-nicois|title=LYON - NICE : LE GROUPE NIÇOIS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=13 November 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191714/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6167/lyon-nice-le-groupe-nicois|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} Digard made his return from injury, coming on as a late substitute, in a 1–0 win over Marseille on 5 December 2010.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6228/nice-1-0-marseille|title=NICE 1-0 MARSEILLE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=5 December 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191727/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6228/nice-1-0-marseille|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} Since returning from injury, he regained his first team place for the side.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6253/caen-0-0-nice|title=CAEN 0-0 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=11 December 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191803/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6253/caen-0-0-nice|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6265/nice-1-1-brest|title=NICE 1-1 BREST|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 December 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222191820/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6265/nice-1-1-brest|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6387/nice-1-0-sochaux|title=NICE 1-0 SOCHAUX|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=5 February 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222195004/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6387/nice-1-0-sochaux|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} During a 1–0 win over Arles-Avignon on 22 December 2010, Digard suffered a stomach problem that saw him substituted in the 38th minute.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6278/arles-avignon-0-0-nice|title=ARLES AVIGNON 0-0 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 December 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222192259/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6278/arles-avignon-0-0-nice|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/10695/maux-d-estomac-pour-digard|title=MAUX D'ESTOMAC POUR DIGARD|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 December 2010|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222192533/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/10695/maux-d-estomac-pour-digard|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} Despite, he returned to the starting line-up, in a 2–0 loss against Lille on 15 January 2011.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6318/nice-0-2-lille|title=NICE 0-2 LILLE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 January 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222192609/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6318/nice-0-2-lille|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} After suffering an injury, he returned to the starting line-up against Lyon on 3 April 2011, captain the side for the second time against the club (having captained the first time on 23 January 2011 against Lyon in the second round of the Coupe de France), in a 2–2 draw.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6339/nice-1-0-lyon-a-p|title=NICE 1-0 LYON (A.P.)|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=23 January 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222202302/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6339/nice-1-0-lyon-a-p|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/10863/digard-forfait-a-toulouse|title=DIGARD FORFAIT À TOULOUSE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=3 April 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222200643/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/10863/digard-forfait-a-toulouse|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6571/nice-2-2-lyon|title=NICE 2-2 LYON|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=3 April 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222200620/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6571/nice-2-2-lyon|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2010–11 season, Digard went on to make twenty–eight appearances in all competitions.
Having featured regularly throughout the campaign, a deal was agreed between both clubs,{{cite news|title=Nice: Digard va signer|url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/breves2011/20110710_162226_digard-definitivement-a-nice.html|accessdate=23 December 2011|newspaper=L'Équipe|date=10 July 2011|language=French|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913103630/http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/breves2011/20110710_162226_digard-definitivement-a-nice.html|archive-date=13 September 2011|url-status=dead}} and Digard completed his permanent transfer in July 2011 for an undisclosed fee on a three-year contract.{{cite web|title=Didier Digard: "Faire partie du projet"|url=http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=7259|publisher=OGC Nice|accessdate=23 December 2011|date=12 July 2011|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511181846/http://www.ogcnice.com/actualite/news.php?clef=7259|archivedate=11 May 2012}}
{{cite web|title=Didier Digard makes switch from Middlesbrough to Nice|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/14251115.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|accessdate=23 December 2011|date=22 July 2011}} Digard expressed his hope to get his career back on track at Nice following difficult experiences at Paris Saint-Germain and Middlesbrough and to return to the France national side.{{cite news|title=Digard looking to bounce back|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7192305/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=21 September 2011|accessdate=28 February 2012}} "Didier will play in front of the defence," said manager Eric Roy, "this is a pivotal position in modern football and he has all the qualities to do so."{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11151/roy-digard-une-telle-marge-de-progression|title=ROY : " DIGARD, UNE TELLE MARGE DE PROGRESSION... "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=12 July 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222203420/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11151/roy-digard-une-telle-marge-de-progression|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
Ahead of the 2011–12 season, Digard was given a new captain role.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6886/didier-digard-le-plus-important-commence|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " LE PLUS IMPORTANT COMMENCE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=5 August 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222204059/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6886/didier-digard-le-plus-important-commence|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} Digard's first game after signing for the club on a permanent basis came in the opening game of the season, playing in the centre–back position, in a 3–1 loss against Lyon.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6890/nice-1-3-lyon|title=NICE 1-3 LYON|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=6 August 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222204105/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6890/nice-1-3-lyon|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} He then established himself in the starting eleven for the side, playing in the midfield positions.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6930/nice-1-1-toulouse|title=NICE 1-1 TOULOUSE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 August 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222210031/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6930/nice-1-1-toulouse|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6953/nice-0-0-brest|title=NICE 0-0 BREST|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=27 August 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222210048/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/6953/nice-0-0-brest|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7071/caen-1-1-nice|title=CAEN 1-1 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 October 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222210040/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7071/caen-1-1-nice|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} As the captain of Nice, Digard spoke out about the development and his role as captain at the club throughout the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11289/digard-difficile-a-avaler|title=DIGARD : " DIFFICILE À AVALER "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 August 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222210033/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11289/digard-difficile-a-avaler|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11359/didier-digard-toujours-le-meme-constat|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " TOUJOURS LE MÊME CONSTAT "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=11 September 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222210046/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11359/didier-digard-toujours-le-meme-constat|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7480/didier-digard-une-seule-chose-qui-compte|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " UNE SEULE CHOSE QUI COMPTE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 March 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223193143/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7480/didier-digard-une-seule-chose-qui-compte|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} However, he suffered two injuries for the next months.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7108/nice-3-0-bordeaux|title=NICE 3-0 BORDEAUX|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 October 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222213408/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7108/nice-3-0-bordeaux|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7158/nice-sochaux-le-groupe-nicois|title=NICE - SOCHAUX : LE GROUPE NIÇOIS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=29 October 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222213410/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7158/nice-sochaux-le-groupe-nicois|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 17 December 2011 Digard came on as a substitute in the 74th minute in a 2–0 against Valenciennes.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7278/nice-2-0-valenciennes|title=NICE 2-0 VALENCIENNES|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=17 December 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222213658/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7278/nice-2-0-valenciennes|archivedate=22 February 2020|url-status=live}} However, he suffered an injury in the 20th minute of the first half and had to be substituted, as Nice lost 1–0 against Montpellier on 28 January 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7378/nice-0-1-montpellier|title=NICE 0-1 MONTPELLIER|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=28 January 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223191227/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7378/nice-0-1-montpellier|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} After missing one match, Digard made his return to the starting line-up, where he started the match and resumed his role as captain, in a 0–0 draw against Paris Saint-Germain on 12 February 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11859/didier-digard-en-bon-capitaine|title=DIDIER DIGARD, EN BON CAPITAINE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 February 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223192314/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11859/didier-digard-en-bon-capitaine|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11893/digard-de-retour-contre-paris|title=DIGARD DE RETOUR CONTRE PARIS?|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=7 February 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223192309/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/11893/digard-de-retour-contre-paris|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7434/nice-0-0-paris-sg|title=NICE 0-0 PARIS SG|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=12 February 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223192307/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7434/nice-0-0-paris-sg|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} He then set up a goal for Abraham Gneki Guié to score the club's second goal of the game, in a 2–1 win over Bordeaux on 3 March 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7485/bordeaux-1-2-nice|title=BORDEAUX 1-2 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=3 March 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223193141/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7485/bordeaux-1-2-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} He then moved to playing in the centre–back position since late March.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7561/st-etienne-2-3-nice|title=ST ETIENNE 2-3 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=31 March 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200041/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7561/st-etienne-2-3-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7573/nice-2-0-lorient|title=NICE 2-0 LORIENT|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 April 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200034/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7573/nice-2-0-lorient|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7613/nice-1-0-auxerre|title=NICE 1-0 AUXERRE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=21 April 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200031/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7613/nice-1-0-auxerre|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} This lasted until on 7 May 2012 against Toulouse when Digard moved to the centre–midfield position.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7652/toulouse-0-0-nice|title=TOULOUSE 0-0 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=7 May 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200014/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7652/toulouse-0-0-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} The remaining two matches of the 2011–12 season saw Digard set up two goals that saw Nice finish in thirteenth place in the league.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7668/nice-1-1-evian-tg|title=NICE 1-1 EVIAN TG|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=13 May 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200210/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7668/nice-1-1-evian-tg|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7685/lyon-3-4-nice|title=LYON 3-4 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 May 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223200221/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7685/lyon-3-4-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2011–12 season, he went on to make thirty–three appearances in all competitions.
The 2012–13 season saw Digard continuing to remain as the club's captain and regaining his first team place for the side.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12458/digard-on-mesure-les-progres-a-faire|title=DIGARD : " ON MESURE LES PROGRÈS À FAIRE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=4 August 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203320/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12458/digard-on-mesure-les-progres-a-faire|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7784/nice-0-1-ajaccio|title=NICE 0-1 AJACCIO|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=11 August 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203320/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7784/nice-0-1-ajaccio|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12492/didier-digard-on-progresse|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " ON PROGRESSE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 August 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203512/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12492/didier-digard-on-progresse|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7800/didier-digard-elever-nos-ambitions|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " ELEVER NOS AMBITIONS "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 August 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203512/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7800/didier-digard-elever-nos-ambitions|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 15 September 201 he helped the side earn their first league win of the season, in a 4–2 win against Brest.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7858/nice-4-2-brest|title=NICE 4-2 BREST|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 September 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203153/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7858/nice-4-2-brest|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} In a match against Bastia on 29 September 2012, Digard set up a goal for Darío Cvitanich to score the club's opening goal of the game, in a 2–2 draw.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7902/nice-2-2-bastia|title=NICE 2-2 BASTIA|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=29 September 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203150/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7902/nice-2-2-bastia|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} In early–November, he captained the club to go on an eight unbeaten streak in the league.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7974/nice-2-1-nancy|title=NICE 2-1 NANCY|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=3 November 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203144/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/7974/nice-2-1-nancy|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8008/nice-1-0-toulouse|title=NICE 1-0 TOULOUSE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 November 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203139/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8008/nice-1-0-toulouse|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8024/sochaux-0-1-nice|title=SOCHAUX 0-1 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=24 November 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203137/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8024/sochaux-0-1-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8053/nice-2-1-paris-sg|title=NICE 2-1 PARIS SG|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 December 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203131/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8053/nice-2-1-paris-sg|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12937/digard-mentalement-nous-sommes-presents|title=DIGARD : " MENTALEMENT, NOUS SOMMES PRÉSENTS "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=11 December 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203120/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/12937/digard-mentalement-nous-sommes-presents|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} The streak ended when Nice lost 3–0 against Lyon on 22 December 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8113/lyon-3-0-nice|title=LYON 3-0 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 December 2012|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223203115/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8113/lyon-3-0-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} This was followed up by scoring his first goal of the season, in a 5–0 win against Valenciennes on 13 January 2013.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8147/nice-5-0-valenciennes|title=NICE 5-0 VALENCIENNES|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=13 January 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212038/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8147/nice-5-0-valenciennes|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} However, during a 1–0 loss against Bordeaux on 27 January 2013, Digard suffered a leg injury in the 13th minute and had to be substituted as a result.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8185/nice-0-1-bordeaux|title=NICE 0-1 BORDEAUX|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=27 January 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212040/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8185/nice-0-1-bordeaux|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} While on a two weeks sidelined, he was named the club's Player of the Month for January.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13086/adducteur-pour-digard-bequille-pour-eysseric|title=ADDUCTEUR POUR DIGARD, BÉQUILLE POUR EYSSERIC|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=27 January 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212047/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13086/adducteur-pour-digard-bequille-pour-eysseric|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8210/didier-digard-aiglon-de-janvier|title=DIDIER DIGARD AIGLON DE JANVIER|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 February 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212044/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8210/didier-digard-aiglon-de-janvier|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} After missing two matches, on 16 February 2013, he returned from injury, starting the 1–0 win against Bastia.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8227/bastia-0-1-nice|title=BASTIA 0-1 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 February 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212055/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8227/bastia-0-1-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} For his return performance, Digard was named L’Equipe's Team of the Week.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13164/digard-dans-l-equipe-type-de-la-25e-journee|title=DIGARD DANS L'ÉQUIPE TYPE DE LA 25E JOURNÉE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 February 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212057/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13164/digard-dans-l-equipe-type-de-la-25e-journee|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 14 April 2013 he scored his second goal of the season in a 3–0 win against Sochaux.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8341/nice-3-0-sochaux|title=NICE 3-0 SOCHAUX|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=14 April 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212156/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8341/nice-3-0-sochaux|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} He captained the side to finishing fourth place in the league, successfully qualifying for European football next season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8144/didier-digard-on-y-prend-gout|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " ON Y PREND GOÛT "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=13 January 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212036/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8144/didier-digard-on-y-prend-gout|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13349/didier-digard-on-a-provoque-la-reussite|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " ON A PROVOQUÉ LA RÉUSSITE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=14 April 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212253/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13349/didier-digard-on-a-provoque-la-reussite|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13370/europa-league-la-5e-place-qualificative-si|title=EUROPA LEAGUE : LA 5E PLACE QUALIFICATIVE SI...|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 April 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212255/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/13370/europa-league-la-5e-place-qualificative-si|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8388/rennes-0-3-nice|title=RENNES 0-3 NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=5 May 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212409/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8388/rennes-0-3-nice|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} For his performance, he was named the club's Player of the Month for April.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8393/didier-digard-aiglon-d-avril|title=DIDIER DIGARD AIGLON D'AVRIL|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=9 May 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200223212421/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/8393/didier-digard-aiglon-d-avril|archivedate=23 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2012–13 season, Digard went on to make forty appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.
Ahead of the 2013–14 season, Digard signed a contract extension with the club, keeping him until 2015, with his contract expected to expire at the end of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17520/didier-digard-prolonge-avec-le-gym|title=DIDIER DIGARD PROLONGE AVEC LE GYM|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=29 July 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224200802/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17520/didier-digard-prolonge-avec-le-gym|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Since then, Digard continued to remain as the club's captain and regaining his first team place for the side.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17816/nice-applique-face-a-rennes|title=NICE APPLIQUÉ FACE À RENNES|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=17 August 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224173449/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17816/nice-applique-face-a-rennes|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17786/digard-garder-notre-humilite|title=DIGARD : " GARDER NOTRE HUMILITÉ "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 August 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224173454/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17786/digard-garder-notre-humilite|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18589/didier-digard-une-saison-se-construit|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " UNE SAISON SE CONSTRUIT "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=14 November 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224184540/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18589/didier-digard-une-saison-se-construit-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} He played and captained the side in both legs of the UEFA Europa League, as Nice lost 2–1 on aggregate against Apollon Limassol.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17812/nice-tombe-dans-le-piege|title=NICE TOMBE DANS LE PIÈGE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 August 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224173631/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17812/nice-tombe-dans-le-piege|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17881/une-valise-pleine-de-regrets|title=UNE VALISE PLEINE DE REGRETS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=29 August 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224175006/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17881/une-valise-pleine-de-regrets|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Digard later stated in an interview that his only regret was not winning against Apollon Limassol.{{cite news|title=Didier Digard: "Mon unique regret", c'est l'élimination face à Limassol|url=https://www.nicematin.com/football/didier-digard-mon-unique-regret-cest-lelimination-face-a-limassol-78133|publisher=Nice Matin|language=French|date=16 September 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Digard then captained the side go on a five match unbeaten streak from 17 August 2013 to 22 September 2013.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18071/nice-ne-perd-pas-le-nord|title=NICE NE PERD PAS LE NORD|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180056/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18071/nice-ne-perd-pas-le-nord|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18127/inoubliable|title=UNE PREMIÈRE INOUBLIABLE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180050/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18127/inoubliable|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18161/didier-digard-il-faut-durer-|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " IL FAUT DURER "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=25 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180045/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18161/didier-digard-il-faut-durer-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} During which, he was the last captain to play at Stade du Ray before playing in a new stadium.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17922/un-nul-pour-finir|title=UN NUL POUR FINIR|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180102/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17922/un-nul-pour-finir|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17913/digard-la-victoire-la-plus-belle-des-fins|title=DIGARD : " LA VICTOIRE, LA PLUS BELLE DES FINS "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224173456/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/17913/digard-la-victoire-la-plus-belle-des-fins-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} His performance against Lille and Valenciennes resulted in him being named L'Equipe Team of the Week.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18076/digard-et-cvitanich-dans-lequipe-type-|title= DIGARD ET CVITANICH DANS L'ÉQUIPE-TYPE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180040/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18076/digard-et-cvitanich-dans-lequipe-type-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18145/digard-et-bodmer-dans-lequipe-type|title=DIGARD ET BODMER DANS L'ÉQUIPE-TYPE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=23 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224180048/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18145/digard-et-bodmer-dans-lequipe-type|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 5 January 2014 Digard scored his first goal of the season in a 2–0 win against Nantes in the first round of the Coupe de France.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19090/le-gym-repart-fort|title=LE GYM REPART FORT!|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=5 January 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224184506/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19090/le-gym-repart-fort-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Ten days later on 15 January 2014, he scored against them for the second time, in a 4–3 loss in the quarter–finals of the Coupe de la Ligue.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19219/une-fin-cruelle|title=UNE FIN CRUELLE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 January 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224193530/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19219/une-fin-cruelle|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Digard suffered a calf injury in the 40th minute and was substituted, as Nice lost 2–1 on 8 February 2014.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19510/le-gym-craque-sur-la-fin|title=LE GYM CRAQUE SUR LA FIN|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 February 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224202010/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19510/le-gym-craque-sur-la-fin|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19513/echo-lundi-pour-digard-mollet|title= ECHO LUNDI POUR DIGARD (MOLLET)|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=9 February 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224202007/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19513/echo-lundi-pour-digard-mollet|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Up until his injury, he played in every match for the club since the start of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19018/les-belles-stats-de-digard|title= LES BELLES STATS DE DIGARD|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=24 December 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224184531/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19018/les-belles-stats-de-digard|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 22 March 2014 Digard returned to the first team, coming on as a substitute in the 62nd minute in a 1–1 draw against Bordeaux.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19988/un-gym-au-grand-coeur|title=UN GYM AU GRAND COEUR|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=22 March 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224195537/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/19988/un-gym-au-grand-coeur|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Two weeks later on 6 April 2014, his return was short–lived when he was sent–off for a second bookable offence, in a 1–1 draw against Saint-Étienne, resulting in him serving a one match suspension.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20134/nice-meritait-la-victoire|title=NICE MÉRITAIT LA VICTOIRE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=6 April 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224195542/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20134/nice-meritait-la-victoire|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20186/digard-ne-manquera-pas-monaco|title=DIGARD NE MANQUERA PAS MONACO|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=10 April 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224195602/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20186/digard-ne-manquera-pas-monaco|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} After returning to the first team, Digard suffered a calf injury that kept him out for the rest of the 2013–14 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20306/les-aiglons-ont-tout-tente|title=LES AIGLONS ONT TOUT TENTÉ|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 April 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224201711/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20306/les-aiglons-ont-tout-tente|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20423/digard-absent-au-moins-dimanche|title=DIGARD ABSENT AU MOINS DIMANCHE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=2 May 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224201718/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20423/digard-absent-au-moins-dimanche|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Throughout the 2013–14 season, the club found themselves battling for relegation, which saw them avoided it by finishing seventeenth place.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18430/didier-digard-un-manque-de-realisme-encore|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " UN MANQUE DE RÉALISME, ENCORE… "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=26 October 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224182658/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18430/didier-digard-un-manque-de-realisme-encore|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18559/didier-digard-un-peu-de-frustration|title=DIDIER DIGARD : " UN PEU DE FRUSTRATION "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=9 November 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224184545/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/18559/didier-digard-un-peu-de-frustration|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20308/digard-il-y-avait-la-place|title=DIGARD : " IL Y AVAIT LA PLACE "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=20 April 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224201713/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/20308/digard-il-y-avait-la-place-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the season, he went on to make thirty–five appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
At the start of the 2014–15 season, however, Digard made his 150th appearance for the club, in a 3–2 win over Toulouse in the opening game of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21168/debuts-de-feu-|title=DÉBUTS DE FEU!|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=9 August 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224204845/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21168/debuts-de-feu-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21182/digard-150eme-|title=DIGARD, 150ÈME!|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 August 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224204946/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21182/digard-150eme-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} But he was sidelined with injury that kept him sidelined for a month.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21215/bodmer-out-plusieurs-semaines|title=BODMER OUT PLUSIEURS SEMAINES|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=14 August 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224210244/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21215/bodmer-out-plusieurs-semaines|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21378/des-nouvelles-de-digard-et-bodmer|title=DES NOUVELLES DE DIGARD ET BODMER|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=28 August 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224211734/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21378/des-nouvelles-de-digard-et-bodmer|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 27 September 2014 he returned to the first team, coming on as a 75th-minute substitute, in a 1–0 win against Monaco.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21709/le-derby-est-nicois-|title=LE DERBY EST NIÇOIS!|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=15 September 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224212115/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/21709/le-derby-est-nicois-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Digard then set up a goal for Carlos Eduardo, who went on to score five times in a match, in a 7–2 win against Guingamp on 26 October 2014.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29781354|title=Guingamp 2–7 Nice|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 October 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.us/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2113657/nices-carlos-eduardo-became-the-first-player-in-ligue-1-to-score-five-goals-in-a-game-since-1984|title=Nice's new five-goal hero Carlos Eduardo has Riquelme in his sights|publisher=ESPN FC|first=Michael|last=Yokhin|date=28 October 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Shortly after, he, once again, suffered a muscle injury that kept him out for almost two months.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22075/-du-tres-haut-niveau-|title=" DU TRÈS HAUT NIVEAU "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 November 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224213257/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22075/-du-tres-haut-niveau-|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 14 December 2014 Digard came on as a 67th-minute substitute in a 0–0 draw against Saint-Étienne.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22508/le-gym-na-pas-trouve-la-cle|title=LE GYM N'A PAS TROUVÉ LA CLÉ|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=14 December 2014|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224214224/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22508/le-gym-na-pas-trouve-la-cle|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Once again, his return was short–lived when he suffered a calf injury that kept him out for two months.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22672/digard-touche-au-mollet|title=DIGARD TOUCHÉ AU MOLLET|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=8 March 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224214440/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/22672/digard-touche-au-mollet|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 21 March 2015 Digard returned from injury, starting a 2–1 win against Lyon.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23365/la-reponse-des-aiglons|title=LA RÉPONSE DES AIGLONS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=21 March 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224214902/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23365/la-reponse-des-aiglons|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} During a match, he suffered an injury and had to be substituted in the 63rd minute; resulting being sidelined once again.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23393/digard-out-contre-evian|title=DIGARD " OUT " CONTRE EVIAN|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=24 March 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224214906/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23393/digard-out-contre-evian|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} On 18 April 2015 Digard again returned from injury, coming on in the 56th minute in a 3–1 loss against Paris Saint-Germain.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23603/une-defaite-sans-rougir|title=UNE DÉFAITE SANS ROUGIR|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 April 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224215042/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23603/une-defaite-sans-rougir|archivedate=24 February 2020|url-status=live}} Following this, Digard regained his first team place for the remaining matches of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23670/la-compo-nicoise|title=LA COMPO NIÇOISE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=25 April 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225193313/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23670/la-compo-nicoise|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23722/digard-sa-saison-son-retour-le-maintien|title=DIGARD : SA SAISON, SON RETOUR & LE MAINTIEN|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=1 May 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225194029/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23722/digard-sa-saison-son-retour-le-maintien|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23847/digard-on-ne-sest-pas-disperse-|title=DIGARD " ON NE S'EST PAS DISPERSÉ "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=17 May 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225195609/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23847/digard-on-ne-sest-pas-disperse-|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}} He then scored his first goal of the season, in a 2–1 win against Lens on 16 May 2015.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23841/une-victoire-synonyme-de-maintien|title=UNE VICTOIRE SYNONYME DE MAINTIEN|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=16 May 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225195927/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23841/une-victoire-synonyme-de-maintien|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2014–15 season, Digard went on to make sixteen appearances and scoring once in all competitions, having helped the club finish in eleventh place in the league.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23912/digard-une-saison-correcte-malgre-tout|title=DIGARD : " UNE SAISON CORRECTE MALGRÉ TOUT "|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=23 May 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225201314/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23912/digard-une-saison-correcte-malgre-tout-|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}} It was announced on 27 May 2015 that the club announced the departure of Digard, whose contract expired at the end of the 2014–15 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23949/civelli-kolo-ospina-digard-bautheac|title=CIVELLI, KOLO, OSPINA, DIGARD, BAUTHÉAC...|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=27 May 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225200627/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/23949/civelli-kolo-ospina-digard-bautheac|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}}
=Betis=
On 8 July 2015, Digard signed a three-year deal with Real Betis, newly promoted to La Liga.{{cite web|url=http://realbetisbalompie.es/es/noticias/actualidad/4931/el-real-betis-firma-didier-digard-para-las-tres-pr|title=El Real Betis firma a Didier Digard para las tres próximas temporadas|trans-title=Real Betis signs Didier Digard for the next three seasons|publisher=Real Betis|language=Spanish|date=8 July 2015|accessdate=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710025935/http://realbetisbalompie.es/es/noticias/actualidad/4931/el-real-betis-firma-didier-digard-para-las-tres-pr|archive-date=10 July 2015|url-status=dead}}
However, Digard suffered injuries during the club's pre–season that saw him miss the opening game of the season.{{cite news|title=Digard es baja en el Betis|url=https://www.marca.com/2015/08/11/futbol/equipos/betis/1439295547.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=11 August 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard sufre una fractura en el codo que no le impedirá entrenar|url=http://www.marca.com/2015/07/14/futbol/equipos/betis/1436866174.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=14 July 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 29 August 2015 he made his Real Betis debut, coming on as a 52nd-minute substitute in a 5–0 loss against Real Madrid.{{cite news|title=Una manita como medicina|url=https://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2015_16/la-liga/jornada_2/rma_bet/|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=29 August 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} His return was short–lived when Digard suffered another injury while training behind close doors.{{cite news|title=Digard, baja segura ante la Real Betis|url=http://www.marca.com/2015/09/09/futbol/equipos/betis/1441796183.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=9 September 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title="Cuando esté bien o el míster piense que estoy mejor, jugaré"|url=https://www.marca.com/2015/10/21/futbol/equipos/betis/1445425226.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=21 October 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 24 October 2015 he returned to the first team, coming on as a late substitute in a 1–1 draw against Granada.{{cite news|title=Regalo con regalo se agradece|url=https://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2015_16/la-liga/jornada_9/gda_bet/|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=24 October 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} After an injury of Alfred N'Diaye, Digard was given his first Real Betis start, where he played 45 minutes before being substituted at half time, in a 1–0 win against Málaga on 7 November 2015.{{cite news|title=La baja de N'Diaye, otra complicación para Pepe Mel|url=https://www.marca.com/2015/11/05/futbol/equipos/betis/1446716452.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=5 November 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Adán salva y el Málaga peca|url=https://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2015_16/la-liga/jornada_11/mga_bet/|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=7 November 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} In a follow–up match against Atlético Madrid, he was given his second start for Real Betis, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 loss.{{cite news|title=Atlético go second as Koke sinks Betis|url=https://www.marca.com/en/2015/11/22/en/football/spanish_football/1448228986.html|publisher=Marca|date=22 November 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Later in the 2015–16 season, Digard continued to be plagued with injuries and being placed on the substitute bench.{{cite news|title=El francés Didier Digard estará de cuatro a cinco semanas de baja|url=https://www.marca.com/2015/11/23/futbol/equipos/betis/1448300691.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=23 November 2015|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Betis Séville : la saison galère de Didier Digard...|url=http://www.footmercato.net/liga/transferts/betis-seville-la-saison-galere-de-didier-digard_176120|publisher=Foot Mercato|language=French|date=16 April 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Los fichajes ya son mayoría en el once de Merino|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/betis/2016/02/12/56bdaaee22601d52438b457b.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=12 February 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard abandona el entrenamiento por una sobrecarga en el cuádriceps|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/betis/2016/03/23/56f281e422601de1668b4643.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=23 March 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} At the end of the 2015–16 season, he appeared in only eight matches for his new club during the seasons, with two rare starts. Digard reflected his time in his first season at Real Betis, saying: "Unfortunately I hurt myself just before the first league game and as the team was going well, it was difficult to replay. After I found my place because the results were worse, but we then changed the coach who had another vision, he unfortunately did not make me play much. These are things that happen in a career."
Ahead of the 2016–17 season, Digard was linked a move away from Real Betis, with a return move to France after Angers had a bid for him rejected.{{cite news|title=El Betis dice no a una oferta del Angers por Digard|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/betis/2016/06/08/5757e0bd46163fcb368b4598.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=8 June 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Instead, on 31 August 2016, Digard was loaned to fellow top-tier club Osasuna, for one year.{{cite web|url=http://www.osasuna.es/noticia/_/9531/31-08-2016-osasuna-se-refuerza-con-digard.html|title=Osasuna se refuerza con Digard|trans-title=Osasuna bolster with Digard|publisher=CA Osasuna|language=es|date=31 August 2016|accessdate=31 August 2016|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905001758/https://www.osasuna.es/noticia/_/9531/31-08-2016-osasuna-se-refuerza-con-digard.html|archivedate=5 September 2016|url-status=dead}} However, he suffered a muscle injury at training that kept him out for a month.{{cite news|title=Digard se retira del entrenamiento con molestias en un gemelo|url=https://www.diariodenavarra.es/noticias/deportes/futbol/osasuna/2016/09/06/digard_retira_del_entrenamiento_con_molestias_gemelo_483337_1027.html|publisher=Diario de Navarra|language=Spanish|date=6 September 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Digard afronta la recta final de su recuperación|url=https://www.diariodenavarra.es/noticias/deportes/futbol/osasuna/2016/10/05/digard_afronta_recta_final_recuperacion_lesion_489983_1027.html|publisher=Diario de Navarra|language=Spanish|date=5 October 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 17 October 2016 Digard made his CA Osasuna debut, starting before being substituted in the 71st minute, in a 3–2 win against Eibar.{{cite news|title=Sergio León y Roberto Torres dan aire a Martín|url=https://www.diariodenavarra.es/noticias/deportes/futbol/osasuna/2016/10/18/sergio_leon_roberto_torres_dan_aire_martin_492687_1027.html|publisher=Diario de Navarra|language=Spanish|date=18 October 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Digard made two more starts until he ruptured his cruciate ligament during a 1–1 draw against Athletic Bilbao on 31 October 2016.{{cite news|title=OSASUNA 1 - BETIS 2: Un zurdazo de Felipe y las dudas de Nauzet oxigenan a Poyet|url=https://as.com/futbol/2016/10/21/primera/1477066978_693161.html|publisher=AS.com|language=Spanish|date=21 October 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Osasuna escapa vivo de San Mamés|url=https://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2016_17/la-liga/jornada_10/ath_osa/|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=31 October 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} It was announced that Digard was sidelined between six and eight months following a successful surgery{{cite news|title=Digard, de 6 a 8 meses de baja por rotura de ligamento cruzado anterior|url=https://www.eurosport.es/futbol/digard-de-6-a-8-meses-de-baja-por-rotura-de-ligamento-cruzado-anterior_sto5933786/story.shtml|publisher=Eurosport|language=Spanish|date=31 October 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Didier Digard operado con "éxito" de una grave lesión en la rodilla derecha|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/osasuna/2016/11/07/582097f0268e3edf128b4a1e.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=11 November 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Following this, he never played for the club for the rest of the 2016–17 season and went on to make three appearances for the side.
A year later on 31 August 2017, Digard terminated his contract at Betis who thanked him for his services to the club.{{cite web|url=http://www.realbetisbalompie.es/en/noticias/last-news/9778/digard-queda-desvinculado-de-la-disciplina-del-rea |title=Digard terminates his contract with Real Betis|access-date=31 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901025600/http://www.realbetisbalompie.es/en/noticias/last-news/9778/digard-queda-desvinculado-de-la-disciplina-del-rea|archive-date=1 September 2017|url-status=dead }} It came after when the club's president Ángel Haro told Digard that he was no longer feature in the first team plan ahead of the 2017–18 season.{{cite news|title=El Betis comunica a Digard y Zozulya que no cuenta con ellos para la próxima temporada|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/betis/2017/06/26/5951113c468aeba4318b45f7.html|publisher=Marca|language=Spanish|date=26 June 2017|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
=Lorca=
It was announced on 8 January 2018 Digard signed for Lorca in the Spanish Segunda División for the rest of the season, having spent four months as a free agent.{{cite web|url=https://as.com/futbol/2018/01/08/segunda/1515427932_782869.html|title=Didier Digard jugará en el Lorca|date=8 January 2018 }} However, he suffered a set-back to his Lorca's career after suffering an injury that kept him out for a month.{{cite news|title=Digard no se recupera y el Lorca estudia buscarle una salida|url=https://www.laopiniondemurcia.es/deportes/2018/02/08/digard-recupera-lorca-estudia-buscarle/896452.html|publisher=La Opinion de Murcia|language=Spanish|date=8 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=El Lorca cubre la desbandada con Asier Villalibre, Gomelt, Deshorn Brown y Vega|url=https://www.laopiniondemurcia.es/deportes/2018/02/01/lorca-cubre-desbandada-asier-villalibre/894547.html|publisher=La Opinion de Murcia|language=Spanish|date=1 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Digard made his Lorca debut on 11 February 2018, starting a match before being substituted in the 82nd minute, in a 3–0 loss against Reus Deportiu.{{cite news|title=Didier Digard: "Tenemos mucho que mejorar"|url=https://www.vavel.com/es/futbol/2018/02/11/segunda-division/878959-didier-digard-tenemos-mucho-que-mejorar.html|publisher=Vavel|language=French|date=11 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Otra cornada mortal para un Lorca que se arrastra en Segunda|url=https://www.laopiniondemurcia.es/deportes/2018/02/12/cornada-mortal-lorca-arrastra-segunda/897387.html|publisher=La Opinion de Murcia|language=Spanish|date=12 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}} He made three more starts for the side.{{cite news|title=El Lorca rompe la racha de diez derrotas con un empate frente al Sporting (0-0)|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/02/17/radio_murcia/1518892497_483262.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=17 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Dorronsoro lidera el segundo empate sin goles del Lorca FC, esta vez en Carranza|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/02/24/radio_murcia/1519467161_394711.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=24 February 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=El Lorca FC busca el milagro en Zaragoza tras la rajada de Fabri a su defensa|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/03/10/radio_murcia/1520640862_422052.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=10 March 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}} However, Digard continued to be plagued with injuries for the next two months at the club.{{cite news|title=El Lorca, pendiente de Digard, Cruz y Vega para recibir al Albacete|url=https://www.laopiniondemurcia.es/deportes/2018/03/03/lorca-pendiente-digard-cruz-vega/902556.html|publisher=La Opinion de Murcia|language=Spanish|date=3 March 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Antonio López debuta en Segunda, dando aliciente al duelo del Lorca FC con el Barça B|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/03/16/radio_murcia/1521233881_870770.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=16 March 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Fabri pierde a Antonio López ante el Córdoba y a Digard para 4-6 semanas|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/04/06/radio_murcia/1523011025_323328.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=6 April 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}} On 11 May 2018 he returned to the first team, coming on as a substitute in the 74th minute in a 2–1 win against Numancia.{{cite news|title=El Lorca FC vuelve a gustarse y tumba a otro equipo de playoff, el Numancia|url=https://cadenaser.com/emisora/2018/05/11/radio_murcia/1526068224_040609.html|publisher=SER Chain|language=Spanish|date=11 May 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}} By the end of the 2017–18 season, Digard made six appearances for the side. Following this, he was released by the club after being banned for playing in the third tier, due to not meeting the economic requirements.{{cite news|title=Lorca FC on the brink|url=https://www.football-espana.net/2018/07/20/lorca-fc-on-the-brink|publisher=Football Espana|date=20 July 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
{{cite news|title=Didier Digard cherche un club|url=https://fr.besoccer.com/info/didier-digard-cherche-un-club-492290|publisher=Be Soccer|language=French|date=28 August 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
In October 2018, he trialled with Ligue 2 side Paris FC for several weeks, but the club decided not to sign him, stating they needed players who would be "physically ready" soon.{{cite news|title=Didier Digard ne signera pas au Paris FC (L2)|url=https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Didier-digard-ne-signera-pas-au-paris-fc-l2/950958|accessdate=6 August 2019|work=L'Équipe|date=19 October 2018|language=French}}
International career
Having previously represented the national team youth side, Digard later played with the under-19 team and was part of the winning team at the 2005 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.{{Cite news|title=French fightback clinches crown|url=http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/under19/history/season=2005/round=1928/match=81509/index.html|work=Union of European Football Associations|date=29 July 2005|accessdate=12 August 2009|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114102721/http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/under19/history/season%3D2005/round%3D1928/match%3D81509/index.html|archivedate=14 January 2016}}
{{cite news|title=La France Championne|url=https://www.planetepsg.com/news-2933-autres-euro_19_ans_la_france_championne.html|publisher=Plante PSG|language=French|date=30 July 2005|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Digard played for the France U21, making eight appearances for the side.{{cite web|url=http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-selectionne-en-equipe-de-france-espoirs.html|title=Didier Digard séléctionné en Equipe de France Espoirs|publisher=Le Havre AC|language=French|date=1 February 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219055459/http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-selectionne-en-equipe-de-france-espoirs.html|archivedate=19 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/equipe-de-france-espoirs-didier-digard-retenu-par-rene-girard.html|title=Equipe de France Espoirs : Didier Digard retenu par René Girard|publisher=Le Havre AC|language=French|date=15 March 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219055505/http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/equipe-de-france-espoirs-didier-digard-retenu-par-rene-girard.html|archivedate=19 February 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-retenu-par-rene-girard-avec-les-espoirs.html|title=Didier Digard retenu par René Girard avec les " Espoirs "|publisher=Le Havre AC|language=French|date=24 May 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219055508/http://www.hac-foot.com/actualite/didier-digard-retenu-par-rene-girard-avec-les-espoirs.html|archivedate=19 February 2020|url-status=live}} He later reflected about playing for the national youth team, saying: "It is a real pride to be one of the best French players, these are good times. I was there from 15 to 22 years old, it was great, I traveled, saw things ... It was the first time I went abroad ... these are just good memories."
His performance at Middlesbrough led then France Manager Raymond Domenech to be called up for a practice match following an injury crisis in October 2008.{{cite news|title=Digard recalled home|url=https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/digard-recalled-home-3726709|publisher=Gazette Live|date=10 October 2008|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Digard later acknowledged about not playing for the national team, saying: "No, it is not a regret because the injuries did not allow me to really flourish, to really show my qualities. I really have no regrets, quite the contrary. When I see the guys of my generation who are there, I'm really happy."
Managerial career
Following his retirement from professional football, Digard returned to Nice, where he was appointed as the club's assistant for the U17 side.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/38576/didier-digard-de-retour-a-logc-nice|title=DIDIER DIGARD DE RETOUR À L'OGC NICE|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=3 December 2019|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225201500/https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/actualite/38576/didier-digard-de-retour-a-logc-nice|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}} In 2021, he was appointed as manager of the club's reserve team in the Championnat National 3.{{Cite web |date=9 June 2022 |title=Manu Pirès dresse le bilan par catégorie |url=https://www.ogcnice.com/fr/article/121590/manu-pires-dresse-le-bilan-par-categorie.html |access-date=27 June 2022 |publisher=OGC Nice |language=fr}}
On 9 January 2023, he was made Nice's interim manager following Lucien Favre's dismissal earlier that day.{{Cite web |title=New Nice manager Didier Digard outlines his tactical ideals – Get French Football News |date=11 January 2023 |url=https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/new-nice-manager-didier-digard-outlines-his-tactical-ideals/ |access-date=13 January 2023 |language=en-US}} His first game in charge was a 6–1 win over Montpellier.{{Cite web |title=Match |url=https://www.ligue1.com/match |access-date=13 January 2023 |website=Ligue1 |language=en}}
Managerial statistics
{{updated|match played 19 April 2025}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
|+ Managerial record by team and tenure |
| rowspan="2" |Team
! rowspan="2" |From ! rowspan="2" |To ! colspan="8" |Record |
|---|
| {{Tooltip|G|Games managed}}
!{{Tooltip|W|Games won}} !{{Tooltip|D|Games drawn}} !{{Tooltip|L|Games lost}} !{{Tooltip|GF|Goals for}} !{{Tooltip|GA|Goals against}} !{{Tooltip|GD|Goal difference}} !{{Tooltip|Win %|Winning percentage}} |
| align=left|Nice (caretaker)
|align=left|10 January 2023 |align=left|30 June 2023 {{WDL|25|12|8|5|for=39|against=23|diff=yes}} |
| align=left|Le Havre
|align=left|1 July 2024 |align=left|Present {{WDL|31|8|3|20|for=33|against=65|diff=yes}} |
| colspan="3"|Total
{{WDLtot|56|20|11|25|for=72|against=88|diff=yes}} |
Personal life
Digard revealed that he became a first time father when he was sixteen.{{cite web|url=https://www.nicematin.com/article/ogc-nice/didier-digard-pile-et-face.483180.html|title=Didier Digard Pile Et Face|publisher=Nice Matin|language=French|date=30 March 2011|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131222140841/https://www.nicematin.com/article/ogc-nice/didier-digard-pile-et-face.483180.html|archivedate=22 December 2013|url-status=live}} Digard commented that being a first time father at age sixteen made him become responsible and serious.{{cite news|title=Digard, le nouveau mûr|url=https://www.lefigaro.fr/football/2007/07/13/02003-20070713ARTSPO00031-digard-le-nouveau-mur.php|publisher=Le Figaro|language=French|date=13 July 2007|accessdate=27 February 2020}} Digard is married and together, they have three children.{{cite web|url=https://www.ogcnice.com/en/news/32430/didier-digard-a-100-aiglons|title=DIDIER DIGARD À 100 % AIGLONS|publisher=OGC Nice|language=French|date=18 December 2017|accessdate=27 February 2020|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225201506/https://www.ogcnice.com/en/news/32430/didier-digard-a-100-aiglons|archivedate=25 February 2020|url-status=live}}
In addition to speaking French, Digard speaks English. In March 2016, his brother, David, was killed in a car accident.{{cite news|title=DIDIER DIGARD ENDEUILLÉ|url=http://sport24.lefigaro.fr/football/etranger/espagne/fil-info/didier-digard-endeuille-798174|publisher=Sport 24 Le Figaro|language=French|date=27 March 2016|accessdate=27 February 2020}} At the time of his death, David worked as a restaurateur.{{cite news|title=DIGARD, LA STAR QUI S'ÉTAIT CACHÉE|url=https://www.sofoot.com/digard-la-star-qui-s-etait-cachee-173358.html|publisher=So Foot|language=French|date=23 September 2013|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Digard became an honorary president for EF Gisors-Béz.{{cite news|title=L'international Didier Digard devient président d'honneur du Football Club Gisors Vexin Normand|url=https://actu.fr/normandie/gisors_27284/linternational-didier-digard-devient-president-dhonneur-football-club-gisors-vexin-normand_16713310.html|publisher=Actu.fr|language=French|date=9 May 2018|accessdate=27 February 2020}}
Honours
Paris Saint-Germain
- Coupe de la Ligue: 2007–08{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}
- Coupe de France runner-up: 2007–08{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}
France U19
- UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2005{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{FFF player}}
{{Le Havre AC squad}}
{{Ligue 1 managers}}
{{Navboxes
| title = Managerial positions
| list1 =
{{OGC Nice managers}}
{{Le Havre AC managers}}
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Digard, Didier}}
Category:Footballers from Eure
Category:French men's footballers
Category:Men's association football midfielders
Category:Paris Saint-Germain FC players
Category:Middlesbrough F.C. players
Category:Premier League players
Category:English Football League players
Category:Segunda División players
Category:France men's youth international footballers
Category:France men's under-21 international footballers
Category:French expatriate men's footballers
Category:French expatriate sportspeople in England
Category:Expatriate men's footballers in England
Category:French expatriate sportspeople in Spain
Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Spain
Category:French football managers
Category:French football coaches