Francisco Farinoli, the head coach of the French club Nice, has clarified his position on Youssef Atal, indicating that a decision regarding the player’s future will be made upon his return from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Atal, facing an eight-month suspended prison sentence and a €45,000 fine from the French court for supporting Palestine, has sparked discussions about his professional status.
Speaking to lagazettedufennec, Farinoli stated, “Youssef Atal is a contracted player with the club and is currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.
We will assess his situation upon his return, and he will reintegrate into the team.”
The police arrested Atal in November after his return to France from representing Algeria, accusing him of incitement to hatred, racism, and support for Palestine.
Farinoli continued, “At this moment, in this month, he is actively participating with his national team.
We will evaluate how things unfold after that.”
Earlier, Nice had announced the suspension of the 27-year-old player until further notice, emphasizing the need to address the situation appropriately.
Despite Atal’s absence from the team since October, he remains a part of Algeria’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Atal, preparing for the tournament, expressed regret during the court proceedings, stating, “I shared the video because I thought it conveyed a message of peace, acknowledging the suffering of people during this war.
Unfortunately, I regret not seeing it through to the end.”
As the football community awaits Atal’s return to club duties, the controversy surrounding his legal issues continues to unfold, adding an unexpected layer to the player’s professional journey.
