FC Metz manager Frederic Antonetti has expressed disappointment in the departure of experienced Ghanaian defender John Boye.
Boye and FC Metz failed to reach an agreement after his contract expired in the summer transfer window.
The Ghana international has since left for Saudi Arabia side Al Fayha, but Metz have struggled since his departure.
"I regret because he was our warrior," said Antenetti. "We are orphaned of a good defender as he is," he added.
Metz lie 18th on the Ligue 1 table and have not won a game since the start of the season.
John Boye had a stellar campaign last season and was captain of the club as they finished mid table.
FC Metz will play Racing Strasbourg on match day 6 of the French Ligue One on Friday.