Both texts are very emotional. After the death of Jean-Louis Gasset on Friday at the age of 72, tributes from French football are pouring in. And those of Yoann Gourcuff and Yann M’Vila, posted this Saturday, are particularly telling.
On the Instagram account of his wife, Karine Ferri, Yoann Gourcuff wrote a very touching text to the man with the cap, with whom he was crowned champion of France with the Girondins de Bordeaux. At that time, Jean-Louis Gasset was deputy to Laurent Blanc.
“Jean-Louis, I am speaking today via my wife’s social networks to thank you deeply for everything you have given me during our two years together in Bordeaux. From the moment I arrived, you placed your trust in me, and that had a profound effect on me. I will never forget all the moments shared together: the discussions about football and tactics on buses, on planes when we travel, or even these spontaneous exchanges before video sessions,” began the former French international.
The former OL magician also spoke of the human qualities of Jean-Louis Gasset: “You were able to put me at ease from the first day and integrate me naturally into the team. Thanks to you, I gained confidence, I progressed and I took great pleasure in discussing the game and football with you. Humanly, I have exceptional memories of you. What wonderful memories shared together. You had a very detailed analysis of football and the opponents, their strengths and their weaknesses. (…) You are without a doubt the coach with whom I had the most beautiful relationship, made of trust and kindness. Thanks for everything. My thoughts are with your family and loved ones. »
“Daddy, words fail me”
On his Instagram account, Yann M’Vila also posted a poignant tribute to Jean-Louis Gasset. With several quite touching photos, some of which in the colors of Saint-Etienne where they met, the former hope of French football began with strong words: “Dad, words fail me. Telling me that you are no longer in this world tears my heart. You were much more than a coach, much more than a friend…You were a father to me. That’s why I called you dad. We spoke again on December 9, on your birthday… I never imagined that it would be the last time. »
“I had the chance to play in the French team thanks to you. I rediscovered my love of football after my depression in Russia by coming to Saint-Étienne, thanks again to you. You gave me back the taste for play, the taste for work, the taste for living. With you, I had immense pleasure, on and off the field,” M’Vila continued. Enough to bring tears to your eyes.
