José Anigo, the Sports Director and Coach of Marseille, has broken his silence on the tragic death of his son, who was murdered in Marseille last year. In an extensive interview with France Football, Anigo opened up about the profound impact of this tragedy on his life.
“I experienced a tragedy that will never heal. The wound will remain open for me and everyone who was around my son. His absence is indescribable. As soon as I leave the Commanderie, I am constantly with these thoughts. My work is a form of therapy,” Anigo expressed.
He emphasized that he does not see himself as superior to anyone and acknowledges the personal struggles he faces. Regarding the possibility of becoming the coach for Marseille, Anigo firmly stated, “I think that would be bullshit, for me and for the club. I’m sure the president and I will find someone to lead the project. There are French and foreign tracks. I can work with everyone and I don’t reject anyone, contrary to popular belief.”
Anigo hinted at the potential of trying his hand at coaching elsewhere, stating, “Can you imagine what I went through for 10 years here? I went through all the stages. From the best to the worst. Elsewhere, it could never be more difficult than here for me.”
Looking ahead to the current season, Anigo set the target of securing the 3rd place for Marseille. He acknowledged the challenges and emphasized the importance of players proving themselves. “We’re going to stick with this project. The club comes before the players. It’s not complicated. If Payet doesn’t get the better of Thauvin, it’s a problem between him and his level of play. If Thauvin can’t move up a gear, it’s his problem. Same for Gignac. If Valbuena doesn’t make it either… A guy who wants to go to the World Cup, he’s going to have to move his butt with me. I am not here to bring a player to the World Cup but so that he is good at OM,” Anigo asserted.
