13 Mar 2022 | 05:37 | Football
“We have not forgotten the past. We also know what we and the team owe to president Nasser Al-Khelaifi ,” wrote Collectif Ultras Paris, one of PSG’s most fervent local fan associations. “But he is clearly not the right man for the job at PSG.”
The ultras said: “We want everyone who loves the club to unite and support PSG without using any violence.”
Previously, Mr. Khelaifi received much criticism after his angry behavior at the Bernabeu in the second leg of the round of 16 of the Champions League 2021/22.
The report from the UEFA referee team after the match revealed that the Qatari businessman broke furniture and shouted at Real Madrid staff. PSG president believes that Karim Benzema fouled Gianluigi Donnarumma in PSG’s first goal.
PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino then confirmed that situation was the turning point leading to Real Madrid’s comeback in the second leg. L’Equipe confirmed that UEFA had opened an investigation into Mr. Khelaifi’s behavior.
Early last month, Collectif Ultras Paris also released a message describing PSG over the years as more like a variety show than a football club. “They pamper players like children, change coaches because of a few individuals, look down on young football and disrespect the women’s team ,” Collectif Ultras Paris asserted.
In addition to the Qatari businessman, PSG’s sporting director Leonardo was also criticized. Marca and France Football revealed the Prince of Qatar was not satisfied with the way Mr Khelaifi and Leonardo were running PSG. The PSG president will have to fly back to Qatar to explain to the Qatar Sports Investment Fund (QSI) about the defeat against Real Madrid.
QSI may consider the possibility of firing the Sports Director and PSG head coach in the near future. Khelaifi’s future at the Parc des Princes in the near future is also questioned. Coach Zinedine Zidane is likely to replace Mr. Pochettino. As the PSG Sports Director, the Qatari owners want Arsene Wenger to replace Leonardo.
