Bernard Casoni’s US Orléans’ contract terminated amidst racism allegations | OneFootball

Amidst accusations of racism, Bernard Casoni’s contract at Championnat National side US Orléans has been terminated. He has been replaced by Karim Mokeddem, whose arrival was announced in the immediate aftermath of Casoni’s departure.

In a brief press release, US Orléans announced Casoni’s departure. The Frenchman has been suspended by the club since 10th October. The suspension came after accusations of racism from his own players. The Orléans Public Prosecutor has since opened an investigation into the allegations of racial discrimination.

As well as the testimony from his former players, in a press conference, relayed by France Bleu, Casoni also said “They (the players) aren’t more stupid than Maghrébins (a region of North Africa including Algeria, Lybia, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia).”

He defended himself by saying, “It was just to tell my players that they are as intelligent as Maghrébins. I worked there for six years, and you think I’m racist.”

Orléans president Philippe Boutron initially defended Casoni, accusing France Bleu of trying to “kill the club” and remarking that “there is no racism in football.” However, Casoni’s departure has now been confirmed. The day after his dismissal, Casoni announced that he will contest his dismissal at the tribunal court.

Orléans, who sit 11th in France’s third tier, immediately announced the arrival of Mokeddem, who has already been presented to the press. The length of his contract has not been communicated by the club.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle