Coach of the French Espoirs team at the Olympic Games, Thierry Henry had to fight to put together his group faced with numerous refusals from clubs, which have not no obligation to release their players for the Olympics. He had drawn up a pre-list of 25 players on June 3, 2024, but only 15 of them ultimately participated in the Olympic tournament. The 1998 world champion therefore had to review his plans, several times, before leading his men to the silver medal.
Very nice medal guys 🥈🙌
- Team of France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) August 13, 2024
(especially the coach's... 😂) #PARIS2024 pic.twitter.com/0KZGfLuOxF
His predecessor, Sylvain Ripoll, had experienced the same difficulties in Tokyo three years earlier. However, this could change. The French government hopes force clubs to make their players availableAn amendment to this effect was adopted within the framework of the bill to reform professional sportClubs that do not comply with this measure would be subject to sanctions.
"Sports associations and companies are required to make available their athletes of French nationality when the latter are the subject of a summons for the purpose of their participation in the Olympic and Paralympic Games.", indicates the amendment in question. This bill must now be examined by the National Assembly.
