Burnley men react to relegation as Maxime Esteve issues heartfelt apology
Maxime Esteve has apologised for Burnley’s relegation – but has pledged to make fans “proud” during the remaining games.
The Clarets’ demotion has long been on the cards, but was finally confirmed earlier this week following the 1-0 defeat to Manchester City.
It marks a third straight relegation from this level for the club – and a second for Esteve personally, despite only arriving at Turf Moor in January 2024.
The Frenchman, a big fans’ favourite among the Clarets faithful, took to social media after the game to address Burnley’s fate being sealed.
“This season hasn't been what you and what we deserved. I'm sorry. We're sorry,” he wrote on Instagram.
“Your support throughout has been unwavering and that means everything to us.
“There are still games to play. We'll play them for you, to try to make you proud.”
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Esteve wasn’t the only one to address Burnley’s relegation, with top goalscorer Zian Flemming also penning a few words.
He said: "We’re going down, but just as I hope you felt and saw again yesterday [Wednesday night], never without fighting until the very end.
"Four more games.”
Florentino Luis added: “This is not the season we wanted to deliver.
"You’ve been there since the first day and we didn’t achieve what we set out to do.
"Now it’s about honour, staying together and fighting for this badge until the very last minute.”
Club legend Ashley Barnes, meanwhile, penned: "You know how much I love this football club. This hurts. A lot.”
Quilindschy Hartman opted to remain positive, insisting the Clarets won’t be away for long.
"The journey continues, Burnley Football Club will be back,” he said.
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