Adrien Anigo was tragically shot several times around 4 p.m. on Avenue Jean-Paul Sartre (13th), beneath the Frais-Vallon metro station. Driving a rented black Twingo, he was targeted by two assailants on a large motorcycle or scooter, who fired through the window, fatally injuring him in the head with two 9mm caliber automatic pistols. Despite efforts by firefighters to revive him, they were unsuccessful.
Olympique de Marseille (OM) is in shock over this devastating incident. Adrien, the son of Marseille football legend José Anigo, who serves as the 50-year-old sports director of OM, faced this senseless act of violence.
José Anigo has devoted thirty-five years exclusively to OM, experiencing roles as a player and coach. For the past six years, he has held an indomitable position as the sports director, witnessing numerous presidents, coaches, and stars come and go.
He has faced challenges but maintains his innocence, stating, “I’m not doing anything wrong, and I have nothing to hide.” The Anigo family resides in a vast property in Aubagne, monitored year-round by security guards. Despite personal difficulties, José Anigo chooses to keep a low profile, understanding the importance of self-protection when withdrawn.
Taking responsibility for his journey, José Anigo acknowledges his connections, stating, “I want to get rid of the legends that stick to me. I know who I am. I may have a few questionable relationships, but I’m not going to turn my back on my childhood friends.” Reflecting on Marseille’s perception, he emphasizes staying on the right side of the line, acknowledging that being around certain individuals doesn’t make one guilty.
José Anigo, growing up in the working-class Consolat neighborhood, faced early tragedy with the death of his older brother in a moped accident at age 12. His Catholic faith provided solace. Starting training at OM at 15, José’s subsequent journey is well-documented.
In March 2007, Adrien, then 28, faced accusations of robberies, allegedly linked to the “jewelers gang.” Sent to prison, he was released in March 2010 due to a procedural error. José Anigo addressed this challenging period, stating, “The street sucked my son in, but that only concerns justice. Today, who cares to say that he has a sports store, a wife, and two children?”
José Anigo also has another son, Frédéric, employed in the municipal police. Lucid about Marseille’s challenges, José Anigo previously noted, “Marseille is a city that eats its children. Me like the others. I’m still here, but a little crushed.” The recent tragedy has undoubtedly added immeasurable sorrow to their family.
