Marcelo Bielsa rejects protest claims over downcast look in FIFA photos | OneFootball

Marcelo Bielsa has dismissed suggestions that his downcast look in FIFA’s pre-World Cup images was a protest, saying he had no explanation to offer and rejecting any political motive.

According to El Pais Uruguay, he first looked straight into the lens for several seconds before lowering his gaze, a familiar habit from press conferences and television linked to his introverted nature.

After Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia on Monday night, the head coach reiterated that nothing was intended as a statement, noting he had simply faced the photographers and that was the picture taken.

He added that he was under no obligation to pose or comply with unfounded demands, insisted he had done nothing wrong, and showed irritation at repeated questions on the subject.

Bielsa said there is a limit to what requires explanation, suggesting everyday choices, such as wearing glasses or where one looks, need none, and that lowering or raising his eyes is simply his way.

Source: L'Équipe