While Nicolas Anelka’s agent, Doug Pingisi, denied any rumors of the player’s possible retirement to AFP, West Bromwich Albion’s manager revealed on Friday that Anelka had discussions with the club staff about potentially ending his sporting career.
Doug Pingisi stated, “No, Nicolas Anelka has not stopped his career.” However, Steve Clarke, the WBA manager, made it clear that Anelka had indeed mentioned the idea of retirement. Clarke explained, “I can’t deny that he used that word. But we gave him time to think about it. I don’t think we can do more in the current circumstances.”
Clarke emphasized that there was no major confrontation and that Anelka didn’t leave abruptly. He said, “There was no big clash, it didn’t go away like a hurricane.” Clarke suggested that thoughts of retirement might arise when a player feels out of place.
Anelka left Baggies training hastily after a conversation with the club leaders on Thursday. According to Clarke, Anelka explained that he didn’t have the right mindset for football. The club decided to give him time to reflect and return with a clearer state of mind.
The situation might be influenced by the recent passing of Eric Manasse, an agent close to Nicolas Anelka. The 34-year-old attacker, grieving the loss of his friend and advisor, returned to France to attend Manasse’s funeral.
