Lille respond after Jonathan David reportedly dropped for disciplinary reasons

Jonathan David, Rémy Cabella, and Thomas Meunier were all absent from Lille OSC’s lineup when as they lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday evening.

They are three players that, ordinarily, would be expected to start. Post-match, Bruno Genesio attributed their absences to squad rotation. Whilst it would seem illogical to leave three key players, especially David, out of the lineup for one of the toughest Ligue 1 fixtures of the season, there is at least the excuse of burnout. Just days earlier, LOSC were in Prague as they secured their place in the UEFA Champions League, via the play-offs.

However, contrary to Genesio’s post-match comments, L’Équipe understands that the trio were left out for disciplinary reasons after they missed a team meal on the eve of the match against Les Parisiens. Genesio neither confirmed nor denied the report.

LOSC have now responded publically to the report in an official press release. “Firstly, the club would like to clarify that the decision was taken in a concerted way and was shared between the president and the manager. This decision came after these players failed to comply with internal regulations and collective rules that are in force in our team,” began the statement, titled “Decisions taken regarding certain Lille players.”

The statement added, “LOSC stands – as a matter of fundamental principle – for the respect of internal and collective rules; rigour and expectations are values and ingredients. Finally, equality of treatment between all players must be absolute, with no one above the club or the collective. The subject is now closed and is in the past.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle