Ivory Coast Coach Criticises Schweinsteiger’s ‘Racist’ Comment

Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé has criticised German football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger over comments he made about the West African side before Germany’s match against them.

Speaking on German broadcaster ARD ahead of the game, Schweinsteiger described Ivory Coast’s style as “a bit African football, a bit unorthodox, a bit wild” and suggested the team was “not so conditioned by tactics,” warning Germany to expect an unpredictable contest.

Faé responded strongly after Ivory Coast secured a 2-0 victory over Curaçao on Thursday to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history.

“I hope it was a clumsy statement that doesn’t reflect who he is,” Faé said, adding that the remarks could be considered racist. He stressed that the Ivory Coast’s success is built on tactical discipline and intelligent play, not just physical strength.

The coach also questioned whether Schweinsteiger was attempting to generate attention in his broadcasting career by relying on outdated stereotypes.

Schweinsteiger’s comments have drawn widespread criticism this week, with many observers arguing they reinforce racist stereotypes about African football.