His speech was highly anticipated and scrutinized. Targeted since Tuesday evening by accusations of racism through Julien Fournier, former football director of OGC Nice, Christophe Galtier decided to break the silence this Friday noon, on the occasion of the press conference of the Parisian club. , on the eve of the clash against Racing Club de Lens.
The marked face, the firm tone but determined to clear his honor, the Parisian coach defended himself, in front of a press room much fuller than usual, of the serious allegations of which he is the subject. A meticulous defense, framed and prepared in agreement with the PSG and its lawyer.
It was through the voice of Julien Maynard, the communications manager for the pro team, that the first statements came. Sitting to the right of his coach, the latter read a press release in which PSG supports him and reminds that he will not be disturbed by this affair.
“Serious allegations have been made in the media against our coach Christophe Galtier. Christophe responded clearly by firmly denying them and announcing that he was going to file a complaint. The club supports Christophe Galtier after the numerous and unacceptable threats he has received and now wants the truth to be established by justice. While waiting for the conclusion of the legal time and in order to protect the safety of all, the club calls on everyone to their responsibilities and to calm down. Paris Saint-Germain, its management, its players and all employees, have no tolerance for intolerance on and off the pitch. The fight against racism and all forms of discrimination is a fundamental commitment of the Club. Paris Saint-Germain will not let themselves be troubled by this episode, and everyone remains fully focused on tomorrow’s game. »
“I am deeply shocked by the words that I am given”
In the wake of Julien Maynard’s speech, it is then the turn of the man towards whom all the eyes and the cameras of the many photographers are trained to express himself, there too, a sheet in hand. For a little over a minute, Christophe Galtier speaks through a text, previously written, in which he first strongly contests the accusations against him since the beginning of the week. In it, the 56-year-old technician also says he is shocked by the comments that were relayed by Fournier in an email written to the management of OGC Nice at the end of last season.
“Like many of you, I am deeply shocked by the words that I am given and relayed by some in an irresponsible way, he explained. They hit me in the depths of my humanity. I am a child of the HLM housing estates, brought up in diversity, the values of sharing, respect for others, whatever their origin, color or religion. »
Before continuing and being satisfied with the legal progress of this case. “All my life as a man has been dictated by the concern for sharing and living well with others, I cannot accept that my name and my family are soiled in this way, he claimed. I have decided to sue anyone who harms my honor. I have confidence in the justice of my country, I can only be satisfied with the opening of an investigation in order to let justice work in peace. I will make no further comments. PSG have a very important game to play. All my energy, my concentration are turned towards this objective. »
“I did not expect to experience this”
In the wake of this speech, the Parisian coach could not escape the reminders of journalists, despite his desire and that of the club to focus on the meeting of the weekend. Which didn’t stop him from being frank when he was asked about the preparation for his match – “It was difficult, very hard, obviously. But I took refuge in work to prepare for our big meeting in the best possible way” – or on his personal feelings about his experience as a PSG coach. “There, we are in the extra-sporty. I did not expect to experience this. It’s like that. The situation is what it is, I have to deal with it. The most important is my job and my relationship with the players and the group. »
This timed press conference, which has surely never been so short this season, ends with a question from one of our colleagues asking him if he thinks he is the victim of jealousy or revenge. After a period of hesitation and a quick glance in the direction of Julien Maynard, Galtier does not risk this field, given the legal situation. “I can’t answer that question, sorry. The conclusion of a press conference like no other.
