Gomis Slams Romao for ‘Beyond Football’ Insult During Ligue 1 Clash
French striker Bafétimbi Gomis has publicly criticised Togolese international Alaixys Romao for making inappropriate remarks during a Ligue 1 encounter between Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille last May.
The match, which ended 4-2 in favour of Marseille, was marred by controversy off the pitch when Gomis took to Twitter shortly after the final whistle, accusing Romao of directing personal insults at him during the game.
In a follow-up interview with Planète Lyon magazine, Gomis, who has represented both France and Senegal during his career, explained his decision to speak out publicly.
“I don’t regret posting that message on Twitter about Romao because I can’t stand it when people say things on the pitch that go beyond football and affect the person,” he said.
Gomis expressed particular disappointment in Romao, noting the midfielder’s history and the tragic events he survived during the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola. The Togolese national team’s bus was attacked by gunmen in the Cabinda region, resulting in the deaths of two team members and widespread trauma among the squad.
“Romao, who I think is a good person — as friends in the Marseille dressing room have told me — should know better after what he experienced in Cabinda,” Gomis added. “He can no longer allow himself to talk like that.”
The Lyon forward claimed Romao had aimed a particularly offensive remark at him during the match, allegedly shouting, “Go on… that big Pierre Ménès,” in a reference to the well-known French football pundit. The comment, perceived as both mocking and derogatory, added to Gomis’ frustration.
Neither Romao nor Olympique de Marseille have issued a formal response to the allegations.
The incident reignited discussions about player conduct on the field, particularly concerning verbal exchanges that cross personal boundaries. While on-pitch banter is often part of the game, Gomis’ remarks underline the emotional toll such comments can take and the importance of mutual respect among professionals.
As of now, Ligue 1’s disciplinary committee has not opened an investigation into the matter.
