Former Arsenal star Samir Nasri has pulled out of his role as a pundit for the Champions League final following abuse from Paris Saint-Germain supporters. The Gunners are set to face the French giants in Budapest on Saturday as they chase their first Champions League title.
Nasri's Decision to Step Down
Nasri, who made 125 appearances for Arsenal between 2008 and 2011, was previously confirmed as a pundit by French channel Canal+. However, it has now been announced that he will not fulfill the role, having reportedly been abused by PSG fans during their semi-final clash with Bayern Munich.
Speaking to L'Equipe, Nasri said: "Yes, it's true. But it's part of the game as a former Marseille player to get insulted by Parisian fans… Even if I think they had other things to do, like celebrating qualifying for the final (smiles)."
He added: "What bothered me was that they insulted my mother... That's not why I'm not going to Budapest for the final. It's not the first time I've been insulted in a stadium, and it certainly won't be the last. And if I let it get to me, I'd stop doing TV and I'd stop going to matches."
Reasoning Behind the Withdrawal
Nasri explained that his decision was also influenced by the desire to have passionate pundits on the panel. "It's PSG-Arsenal, it's better to have Robert Pires, who's a die-hard Gunners fan, and David Ginola, who's a die-hard PSG fan, than someone neutral like me on the panel. Arsenal is also my former club, but I don't have an extraordinary relationship with its supporters."
This move comes just weeks after Nasri predicted his former side Arsenal would lose the final. He said: "In terms of what PSG is developing, I see them as favorites. On the other hand, Arsenal will be in a phase that they like. They will wait for PSG. But I see PSG."
Nasri's Strained Relationship with Fans
While Nasri's relationship with PSG supporters has led him to turn down the punditry gig, the Frenchman would likely not receive a warm welcome from Arsenal fans either. His controversial move from the Emirates to Manchester City in 2011 remains a sore point.
At the time, he claimed his decision was driven by a desire for silverware, not money. "Manchester City did not offer me three times what I was earning at Arsenal. Arsenal offered me an extension as well. Titles, I hope. I am 24 and everyone says I am a good player but I haven't won anything. I loved my time with Arsenal but I have never won anything with them. This year, their best player left – Fábregas. If you are going into a team with Agüero, Silva, Tevez, Kompany and all the rest, you must be confident of winning a trophy. I have four years to win one."
Nasri's withdrawal means Canal+ will now feature Robert Pires and David Ginola as pundits for the final, both of whom have strong affiliations with Arsenal and PSG respectively.
