I have coached in Africa for 10 years, I can never be racist: Eymael

Former AFC Leopards Head Coach Luc Eymael has denied claims of racist remarks that allegedly cost him his job at Tanzania giants Yanga on Monday.

Speaking to People Daily yesterday, the Belgian manager said the only thing he did was to take a knee at the end of their final match of the season to show that he supported ‘Black Lives Matter’ campaign, before he was later met by a barrage of attacks on social media accusing him of making racist remarks.

“I have been a coach in Africa and with a good reputation with fans and players for more than 10 years, what would make me be a racist now? I really don’t want to dwell into this issue a lot because I’m perplexed,” he said.

Yanga chiefs on Monday claimed that after reviewing a widely circulated recording, they came into conclusion that the 60-year-old was heard calling Tanzanian fans dogs and comparing them to chanting monkeys.

He was talking after some supporters in the stadium showed displeasure to changes he made during last Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against Mtibwa Sugar.

The club announced his sacking on Monday as Eymael denied his comments were aimed at Yanga supporters.

“I’m still in my hotel in Dar Es Salaam and yet to get any communication from Yanga,” the Belgian said.