In response to recent criticisms from French football pundit Jérôme Rothen regarding the quality of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ivory Coast Coach Emerse Faé has delivered a scathing rebuttal. Faé, speaking passionately about the tournament’s caliber, dismissed Rothen’s remarks as uninformed and disrespectful.
“I heard that there is a so-called journalist in France, who has never played an international match in his life, who said that the level of the African Cup of Nations was catastrophic because there was neither technique nor tactics. I think he understands nothing about football,” Faé asserted.
The Ivory Coast coach didn’t hold back, drawing attention to Rothen’s own playing career while questioning his authority to critique such a prestigious tournament. “When we look at the international career he had… I am not surprised,” Faé remarked pointedly.
Faé went on to extol the virtues of the recently concluded AFCON, emphasizing its excitement and the quality of play on display. “It was an extraordinary AFCON, with twists, goals, and spectacle,” he declared. “It was very dishonest of him to say that this AFCON was not of quality.”
Rothen’s comments had sparked controversy, with many fans and experts alike disagreeing with his assessment of the tournament. However, Faé’s impassioned defense not only aimed to refute Rothen’s claims but also to highlight the positive aspects of African football showcased during the AFCON.
As the debate surrounding the tournament’s quality continues, Faé’s response serves as a reminder of the passion and pride that African nations hold for their footballing heritage, and the significance of events like the AFCON in celebrating that legacy.
