Lille manager Rudi Garcia has insisted that he is to remain at the club despite increased speculation regarding his future.
Reports suggested the 2011 Ligue 1 champions had met with Real Sociedad boss Philippe Montainer and outgoing Montpellier head coach Rene Girard as part of contingency plans in case Garcia opted not to see out his contract, which expires in June 2014.
However, the 49-year-old was quick to stress that he will honour his agreement and has no desire to leave the Grand Stade Metropole.
“I’ve talked about this often, but you haven’t taken heed. I can tell you in several languages if you like. We know Rudi Garcia will be at Lille next season. My president says the same thing as I do,” Garcia said.
“It’s not true that they have met Girard and Montanier, and it’s annoying to say so. Philippe Montanier called me to say that he had had no contact with Lille, for Girard, I don’t know anything about that.”
Veteran midfielder Benoit Pedretti supported his manager’s statements, reinforcing the message by stating that all players had been informed of the Garcia’s wish to maintain his commitment to the club.
Pedretti said: “He’ll be our coach next season. He’s told us, just as he’s told you and president [Michel] Seydoux has told you. You have to believe us. Perhaps it’ll have more weight if a player tells you rather than the coach.”
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