There was an air of solitude on Tuesday, February 3, in Marcoussis. The pouring rain, which rinsed the Blues training center, set a gloomy scene. In the auditorium, where a few journalists were seated, whispers tried to break through the silence when Fabien Galthié showed up, punctual, at 11 a.m., dressed to the nines in his black suit, black tie and white shirt. The coach greeted everyone with a handshake then returned to his desk, behind which, straight as rugby posts, he then listed the names making up his team. In a calm, monotone voice.
His explanations took, as often, circuitous paths but his communication achieved its goal. A smooth board, lukewarm water. And a way of brushing aside the slightest rough edges, the hiccups as if it was necessary at all costs to avoid admitting one’s doubts and questions two days before the start of the French XV in the Six Nations Tournament, this Thursday evening (9:10 p.m.) at the Stade de France against Ireland. However, Fabien Galthié would have reason to feel feverish. His seventh year at the head of the Blues opens with a competition that it would be better not to miss.
