Former footballers Emerse Faé and Jérôme Rothen engaged in a war of words, exchanging differing views on the tournament’s quality. The dispute arose when Rothen, a prominent columnist and presenter on RMC Sport, expressed disappointment in the technical quality of the competition.
Faé, the national coach of Côte d’Ivoire, promptly defended AFCON, asserting that it was an extraordinary event with captivating matches, twists, and goals.
In response to Rothen’s criticism, Faé remarked that the statements were very dishonest and questioned Rothen’s understanding of football, referencing the former player’s international career.
The exchange escalated when Rothen invited Faé to elaborate on his comments during a broadcast on RMC Sport.
Rothen clarified that his critique was solely directed at the technical quality of the matches and the elimination of prominent teams like Senegal, Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt in the round of 16.
Faé, maintaining a composed stance, reiterated his positive perspective on AFCON, emphasizing the excitement, unexpected outcomes, and overall success of the tournament.
He emphasized that expressing opinions is part of the game, and he harbors no ill will.
“It wasn’t even an attack. I was asked the question, and I answered what I was thinking at the time. For me, AFCON was extraordinary.
Matches with twists and turns, goals… For me, it was a successful AFCON. (…) I don’t like controversies. I gave my opinion on one point. We are all adults, all football fans.
We all have an opinion, and as long as everyone has given it, there is no problem. I don’t attack anyone. Critics of Jérôme’s career? It’s fair game,” Faé articulated.
The verbal sparring between Emerse Faé and Jérôme Rothen has seemingly come to an amicable conclusion, with both parties expressing their perspectives and acknowledging the diversity of opinions within the football community.
