Sadly for fans of the high-flying Ligue 1 club, Nicollin refuses to dream his side can upset the odds and win their first French title, stating: "I don't believe in Santa Claus," when asked about the chances of a team that finished down in 14th last term.
But on Sunday's evidence, Montpellier really can pull off the impossible after they outplayed big-spending leaders Paris Saint-Germain for long spells before coming away from the capital with a 2-2 draw which left them a point behind in second place.
Given they boast new France striker Olivier Giroud and skilful Morocco playmaker Younes Belhanda, Montpellier are there to pounce if the weight of expectation at PSG prompts further nerves among Carlo Ancelotti's troops with 14 games to go.
"I wouldn't say I was disappointed, I would say frustrated because I think that this evening if a team deserved to win, it was us," he told reporters after Sunday's 2-2 draw.
"We were waiting for this match with impatience to know how we would react against this PSG team who announced themselves as championship leaders.
"I heard a lot of people who said we were going to crumble, and with the pleasure of disappointing them we are still here."
