On July 12, 1998, for the first time in its history, the French team won its first star. A World Cup celebrated in jubilation, at home, after a resounding success over Brazil. This victorious campaign forever in legend, there is a player who could have participated in it. In any case, this is the funny confidence of a certain Bruno Ngotty.
As part of a long interview given to L’Equipe, the former PSG defender – unforgettable sole scorer in the 1996 Coupe des Coupes final – relays a delicious exchange with the indescribable Lilian Thuram, a character who was so decisive in the conquest of this 1998 World Cup.
“ I started in the selection at the same time as Lilian Thuram, and he said to me one day: “I don’t understand why you didn’t make the World Cup, and that I have 140 caps (142 in total, editor’s note). I have never seen a player as strong as you…” », Says the native of Lyon, now 54 years old.
A stubbornness that is expensive
Asked to talk about the biggest regret of his career, Bruno Ngotty responds without hesitation: “ Not having won the World Cup with the France team in 1998… » And to resituate the context: “ I am fatalistic and a little narrow-minded. In 1997-1998, I was at PSG, but it was my last season and I had already signed for Milan. And Ricardo told me: “Either you play number six, or you don’t play anymore. » I told him that I wanted to play in my position. »
Result, a missed meeting with the French team and the 1998 World Cup, with a French counter stuck at six selections – the last one in June 1997 during a friendly match against Italy (2-2). “ Aimé Jacquet (the coach of the Blues in 1998, editor’s note) told me he couldn’t take me if I didn’t play in a club. But since I’m stubborn, I said it’s okay, I’m not playing… », whispers the one who will ultimately play 42 matches in the Rossoneri jersey, between 1998 and 2000.
