Turkey: selection call, injury and rant against controversial comments from Lucescu, Arthur Masuaku’s busy week
It’s been an eventful week for Arthur Masuaku, the talented Congolese full-back playing for Besiktas. Between a selection call, an injury and a vehement reaction to controversial comments, Masuaku didn’t have time to breathe.
First of all, the left winger received the call from Sébastien Desabre to join the Congolese selection during the September rally. Considered one of the team’s executives, Masuaku is one of the eight defenders selected for the match against Sudan in Kinshasa. If qualified, he will be a major asset for the team at the next African Cup of Nations.
However, his participation in this crucial match is now in doubt due to an injury that occurred during the Europa League Conference game against Dynamo Kyiv. Holder during this meeting, Masuaku had to leave the field at half-time, victim of a stretch and bleeding in the biceps femoris. The duration of his absence has not yet been determined, leaving doubt over his presence during the decisive match with the DRC.
But it’s not just his injury that’s garnered attention this week. After Besiktas’ victory against Dynamo Kyiv, Ukrainian coach Mircea Lucescu made controversial remarks during the press conference. He said his team played against an “African national team” and not against Besiktas, referring to the many players of African descent in the Turkish team.
Faced with this statement deemed disrespectful and discriminatory, Masuaku was quick to react. On social media, he posted a tweet with a questioning emoji, questioning the relevance of this statement. This demonstrates his sensitivity to issues of racism and unfair treatment towards players of color in Europe. In August, he had already denounced the monkey cries he was subjected to during a Turkish championship match.
This eventful week shines a light on Arthur Masuaku’s determination to represent his country and fight against prejudice in the world of football. Despite his injury, he hopes to be able to join his teammates for the qualification for CAN 2023, while continuing to defend his integrity on and off the pitch. Indeed, Masuaku’s talent and commitment make him much more than just a football player, but a powerful voice in the fight against racism and discrimination