French football academies ‘laid bare’ over violence and abuse | OneFootball

L'Equipe reports that physical, psychological and at times sexual violence has occurred in French football academies, with some careers upended.

Former Vichy pre-formation prospect Rémi Laâsri describes so-called manhunts in which older boys chased younger ones, forcing them into hiding and beating those they caught.

Hazing that turned violent, theft of belongings and, at times, communal divides were cited, with one agent saying harassment at a major club exploited ethnic differences between Black and Arab players.

Others recall an ultra-masculine climate that intruded on players’ sex lives. One former trainee, identified as Thomas, spoke of sexualised bullying known as the Zaal, including intrusions into his room and semen used to degrade.

A France international developed in the west of the country is said to have suffered ultra-brutal harassment, including a broom handle forced into his rectum, the report said.

Some clubs have started tackling the issue, working with associations on prevention and awareness workshops, and creating smaller groups by age category.

Source: Le Progres