We know that the relationship between the press and football clubs is often linked to the latter’s results, and the incident that occurred a few days ago between a local radio station and the red and black club will undoubtedly be seen in this light.
The spark between Frédéric Antonetti, the coach of OGC Nice, and one of the journalists from this local radio would certainly have remained just that, but the story took a different turn as the Union Syndicale des Journalistes Sportifs de France was brought in, even reacting in the columns of Nice-Matin on October 13th.
Following these reactions, OGC Nice published a right of reply on its website, and Nice Première wanted to know more by meeting Virginie Rossetti, the club’s communications manager, who gave us her version of the events.
Nice Première: Virginie, can you explain the reasons for the storm between some local journalists and OGC Nice?
Virginie Rossetti: Let’s not talk about a storm…the situation is a bit tense at the moment, simply due to the team’s sluggish results…but I am convinced that once we chain a few victories, everything will be fine again…the moods of everyone involved as well.
NP: Is this the first time such an incident has occurred in the red and black house?
VR: No, it’s not the first time that results have caused tensions and, therefore, outbursts, which I think happens everywhere…from the moment human beings collaborate, especially in an environment where pressure is omnipresent.
NP: What was Frédéric Antonetti’s reaction to this?
VR: I think he doesn’t enjoy arguing with this or that journalist…he’s a very whole-hearted person who gives his all for the Club and thus felt hurt by some attacks.
NP: What is the procedure for obtaining an interview or writing an article about the club?
VR: At each training, the approach hasn’t changed, the players and staff are always very accessible and respond directly without any prior steps being necessary. However, for any TV panel or radio show, the Press must make the request to the Communications service, which between us isn’t at all shocking.
NP: And finally, what would be your last word on this incident?
VR: Let’s focus on football and not enter into an unnecessary controversy…