Nicolas Anelka Defiant Over Quenelle Controversy: “I Have No Regrets”
Nicolas Anelka has once again stirred public discourse by revisiting the controversy that cost him nine months of football and ultimately marked a dramatic turning point in his career.
In an interview with France Football, the former France international addressed the infamous “quenelle” gesture he made in December 2013 while playing for West Bromwich Albion. At the time, the gesture — widely interpreted as anti-Semitic — sparked international outrage. Anelka insisted then, and maintains now, that it was not a hate-driven action but rather an “anti-establishment” statement in support of French comedian Dieudonné, who was embroiled in legal battles over the content of his shows.
“I do not regret supporting my brother (Dieudonné),” Anelka told France Football. “I know what he went through. I had my reasons, and I stand by them. I’m mature enough to face the consequences of my actions. I’ve accepted them, moved on, and I live with that choice just fine.”
The incident led to Anelka’s departure from West Brom and a five-match ban issued by the English Football Association, alongside a fine and a requirement to complete an education course. Though he appealed against the sanctions, his contract with the club was terminated shortly thereafter.
This was not Anelka’s first brush with controversy. In 2010, he was expelled from the French national team during the FIFA World Cup in South Africa after a heated altercation with then-coach Raymond Domenech, leading to his suspension from international duty.
Described by former teammates as fiercely independent — “a stubborn boy,” as one put it — Anelka has often marched to the beat of his own drum throughout a career that spanned elite clubs including PSG, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Juventus.
Now 35, the striker is nearing what could be the final chapter of his footballing journey, currently playing for Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League. He hinted this autumn might mark the end of his time on the pitch, although he left the door open to exploring new roles in football — possibly off the field.
Whether remembered for his undeniable talent or the headlines off the pitch, Anelka remains one of modern football’s most enigmatic and polarising figures.
