On the occasion of the 90th anniversary of ASSE, Le Progrès had the opportunity to interview Michel Platini, one of the men who created the legend of the Greens. Platini, a former French footballer, discussed his time at ASSE and shared his thoughts on the future of the club.
Platini began by reflecting on his arrival at ASSE, stating that it was an important turning point in his career. He had joined the club from Nancy and signed for Juventus three years later. Platini emphasized the significance of joining a club with a rich history and track record, which helped him progress as a player. He described ASSE as the best French club of the time and expressed his pride in joining a team that had made such an impact during his childhood and adolescence.
During his time at ASSE, Platini highlighted the physical development he underwent, thanks to the club’s specific and demanding training. He noted that the team in 1976 was primarily focused on physicality, with Larqué being the only player who possessed technical skills. Platini found it challenging to compare players, coaches, and presidents across different eras but acknowledged the vision of ASSE’s president at the time, Roger Rocher, and the technical support provided by Garonnaire and Herbin.
When asked about ASSE’s prospects for returning to the forefront of French football, Platini expressed skepticism. He humorously suggested that finding oil in the mines might be the only way to achieve such a feat. He also commented on the challenges of developing young players, stating that the influence of money often determines the quality of players a club can attract.
Regarding the potential sale of Roland Romeyer and Bernard Caïazzo, Platini highlighted the difficulty of finding suitable buyers who can afford the club. He compared ASSE’s budget to that of Paris Saint-Germain, emphasizing the financial disparity between the two clubs.
Platini emphasized the importance of having a strong team, audience, and stadium for ASSE’s success. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the club in attracting spectators but noted the significant turnout of 39,000 people for a recent match against Valenciennes. Platini believed that there is a story in Saint-Etienne and that it is crucial to bring joy to the spectators and create an atmosphere where people can truly engage with the team.
Lastly, Platini praised the modernization of ASSE’s stadium while maintaining its unique characteristics. He mentioned his friend Roland Goujon, who played a role in ensuring that Saint-Etienne was chosen as a venue for Euro 2016. Platini highlighted that this decision has allowed the stadium to host matches for prestigious events such as the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics.
In conclusion, Michel Platini’s interview with Le Progrès provided insights into his time at ASSE and his thoughts on the future of the club. His reflections on the importance of history, training, and fan engagement shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by ASSE as it celebrates its 90th anniversary.
How did Roger Rocher’s belief in investing in young talents and creating a strong team spirit contribute to ASSE’s success under Michel Platini?
Time, Roger Rocher, who aimed to build a formidable team. Rocher believed in the importance of investing in young talents and creating a strong team spirit, which Platini felt played a crucial role in their success.
Platini recalled the memorable European Cup final in 1976 against Bayern Munich, where ASSE narrowly missed out on claiming the title. Despite the disappointment, Platini expressed his pride in the team’s performance and the impact they made on the international stage. He credited the ASSE supporters for their unwavering passion and affection throughout his time at the club.
When discussing the future of ASSE, Platini emphasized the importance of preserving the club’s identity and values. He believed that ASSE should continue nurturing young talents while maintaining a strong team spirit. Platini also stressed the need for sustainable financial management, as he believed it was essential for the club’s long-term success.
Platini expressed his optimism for ASSE’s future, highlighting the potential of the current squad and their ability to compete at the highest level. He applauded the dedication and hard work of the players, staff, and supporters, which he believed would contribute to the club’s continued success.
As the interview came to a close, Platini expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of ASSE and contribute to the club’s rich history. He acknowledged the special connection he still felt towards the club and its supporters, emphasizing that ASSE would always hold a special place in his heart.
Overall, Michel Platini’s interview shed light on his time at ASSE and his thoughts on the club’s future. He reflected on the importance of ASSE in his career and praised the club’s rich history and strong team spirit. Platini’s optimism for the future highlighted his belief in ASSE’s potential for continued success.
“The Legend of ASSE: Michel Platini and the Era of the Greens truly captures the greatness that was Michel Platini and his unforgettable era at AS Saint-Étienne. From their dominant performances to their passionate fan base, this article does justice to their remarkable legacy. A must-read for any football enthusiast!”
This article sheds light on the legendary ASSE era led by the great Michel Platini. A captivating tribute to the unforgettable time when the Greens ruled football.