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This Friday, April 14, PSG coach Christophe Galtier, accused of having made discriminatory remarks during his time at OGC Nice, said he was “deeply shocked” during a press conference. The technician received the “support” of PSG and a preliminary investigation was opened for suspicion of “discrimination based on an alleged race or belonging to a religion”.
« I am deeply shocked by the words that are attributed to me and which have been relayed by some in an irresponsible way, which strike me in the depths of my humanity “, reacted Christophe Galtier. ” I am a child of the HLM housing estates brought up in the mix, brought up to respect others, whatever their origin, color or religion. My whole 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 be soiled in this way. ».
« I have not spoken with my players”
In an email sent at the end of last season to the management of the Nice club and revealed on Tuesday by the independent journalist Romain Molina then by RMC, the former director of OGC Nice Julien Fournier notably reported these comments attributed to Christophe Galtier: ” He then replied that I had to take into account the reality of the city and that indeed, we could not have so many blacks and Muslims in the team. ».
PSG are playing an important game in their title race on Saturday against Lens, their six-point runner-up. This new extra-sporting affair comes in full preparation for this meeting. “ I haven’t spoken with my players about this subject, but they sent me back the best answer with the total investment during the training sessions “, specified Galtier.
Investigation and searches in Nice
« It was difficult, very hard, of course.he added. I took refuge in work. Tell you it’s nice, no. But the moments spent with the players allowed me to evacuate and forget everything that was said. »
« The club supports Christophe Galtier and wants the truth to be established by justice “, had explained the press officer of the club just before the speech of Galtier.
A preliminary investigation has been opened for suspicion of “discrimination based on an alleged race or affiliation to a religion” after the charges against Christophe Galtier, the Nice prosecutor said on Twitter on Friday. This investigation entrusted to the judicial police is “in connection” with the accusations against Mr. Galtier, confirmed Xavier Bonhomme to AFP, adding that searches “are in progress within the premises of OGC Nice “, confirming initial information from Nice Matin.
(With AFP)
► To read also:Bad times for PSG coach Christophe Galtier accused of racism