Madagascar leave out Zacharie Boucher after 2018 interview

Zacharie Boucher has been left out of Madagascar’s national team after comments he made in a 2018 interview resurfaced.

The Madagascar Football Federation confirmed the decision in a statement, following an outcry among supporters over remarks made by the ESTAC Troyes goalkeeper.

The 34-year-old had represented France at youth level, playing for the under-19, under-20 and under-21 teams. Boucher had hoped to play for the senior France side, but that ambition was never fulfilled.

In 2018, the Madagascar Football Federation contacted him about joining the Barea. He declined the approach and later explained his position in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe.

“I am French. I have never been Malagasy. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing to discuss. Just look at my passport,” Boucher said.

“If the coach calls me, the answer is no. I am not Malagasy. The France national team shirt is important to me. I will not wear any shirt other than that.

“I am French, proud to be so, and I have no intention of playing in the Africa Cup of Nations with anyone.”

The interview drew renewed criticism in Madagascar after Boucher was called up to the national team. The reaction prompted the federation to reconsider his inclusion.

“After discussions between the different parties, it was decided not to include the player in the squad for the next Barea training camp,” the federation said.

Boucher’s omission means he will not be part of Madagascar’s next international gathering.