Jacques Séguéla, a renowned advertising executive, shared his thoughts on Franck Ribéry in an interview with France Football. Despite never having met Ribéry, Séguéla provided his perspective:
- “Footballers all have over-virility, they are over-hormoned, over-testosteronated. That’s what we ask of them on a football field, and from time to time their penises give out… I understand that we are angry with him for the harm he did to his wife; because she is the heroine and she was right to forgive.”
Séguéla emphasized the human aspect of Ribéry’s life, acknowledging that he wasn’t spared from challenges. He expressed a liking for human weakness and encouraged the understanding that heroes, stars, and champions have vulnerabilities like everyone else. Séguéla coined the term “skidder” to describe Ribéry, referring to his propensity for controversy and challenges in the media.
Additionally, Séguéla characterized Ribéry as the “anti-handsome guy,” distinguishing him from players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, describing him as “colorless, odorless, and tasteless.” These remarks provide a unique perspective on Ribéry’s public image in the eyes of a branding and image expert.
