*You need to listen to what he's trying to tell you, and take him out.
My DS was similar, I found out quite by accident the reason why (not going to go into the whole story on this thread as it's upsetting).
A smaller setting like a childminder might suit him better.*
Eight months out of a 2.5 year old's life is massive. For him to be so unhappy there, it just seems cruel to make him stay there.
Because of my own trauma at 2.5 yrs at the brutal Day nursery {won't go into it here} I never sent my DS to any nursery where I wasn't present.
He started school at 4 and loved it. {late July birthday}
The early years are so formative, He is a baby, really...He needs his Mum, or at least a kindly person whom he feels safe with.
I have honestly shed a tear at re-reading your description, as it brings back memories.. Your Son cannot tell you how frightened and bereft he feels in words, but his actions speak volumes.
I agree with PP about the potential for long term damage somewhere so ''unsuitable'' for him could be doing...
The stress hormones flooding his body alone cannot be good.
A kinder, more nurturing place , or even a one to one well vetted Nanny would be more suitable.
Re different languages.... Kids play well together {when happy} no matter what the language..Just look at groups of kids on International camp sites..
👍