We cannot say that André Villas-Boas has breathed serenity in recent weeks. Wednesday evening, after the defeat in Rennes (2-1), the Portuguese coach of OM, 4th in Ligue 1, took a further step by attacking a journalist, regular follower of the club for several years for the Marseille daily Provence. First at his press conference where he threatened him physically and verbally, then in the parking lot where the former Tottenham coach allegedly insulted him in Portuguese. Ricardo Carvalho, Villas-Boas’ deputy, then intervened to separate the two men.
For its part, the Union of Sports Journalists in France (UJSF) had “strongly condemned the attitude” of the Marseille coach, affirming “unreservedly” his support for the journalist, in a press release published on Thursday. “In the space of 8 days, the verbal reproaches of the Portuguese technician took an unacceptable turn”, wrote the union, which “will follow with particular attention the evolution of this file”.
“Freedom of expression is one of the most precious human rights”
In this tense climate, the speech of the OM coach was therefore eagerly awaited this Friday afternoon at the Commanderie during the pre-match press conference against Reims, 17th in L1. If some journalists would have preferred to exchange in private with him, Villas-Boas and the club preferred to stick to the traditional framework of the conference. The coach began to read a letter in which he expressed his regret towards the journalist he had taken to task in Rennes.
“I would like to say a word, after the incident on Wednesday night, to journalist Jean-Claude Leblois from La Provence,” said the former Chelsea manager. I regret my reaction. The substance of my thinking does not change but I understand that the form has provoked your criticism. Your reviews are fair. Freedom of expression is one of the most precious human rights. I have no problem with the press or with criticism, but I did not live with the two articles which, for me, attack my dignity and my integrity as a professional and a person. “
“I had a reaction that a person cannot have, I regret it and I am ready to apologize in front of the reporter, added Villas-Boas. I had Frank McCourt last night (Thursday) to clarify my actions. I remain focused on OM, our players and our staff. Thanks for your understanding. “
After reading his text, Villas-Boas did not really cheer up. He declined to answer a question about the altercation case before indicating that if anyone wanted to talk to him about gambling, “he could stay to answer but if not, he could leave.”
