Fabien Galthie’s suspension as coach of French Top 14 rugby club Montpellier has been extended, club president Mohed Altrad said Friday after a meeting between the two men.
The former France captain was relieved of his duties as head coach on December 29 after a string of defeats, with South Africa’s 2007 World Cup winning coach Jake White being brought in as a consultant to take over the reins.
“The suspension is extended. I’m giving myself time to reflect,” said Altrad.
“I let him know my grievances,” he continued.
“They covered his comments and behaviour during this period of defeats. And I’m disappointed because he didn’t tell me anything.”
Earlier Galthie refused to comment after the 30-minute meeting at Montpellier’s Altrad Stadium. “I’ve nothing to say,” he said.
Galthie, who was appointed coach in 2010, was provisionally suspended after a long series of defeats.
“In a rugby club, whatever the level, it’s rare to lose eight out of nine matches,” said Altrad at the time.
“It’s a failure. We can’t say that Galthie’s path this season has been a success.
“We’re not happy with his communication .. which is neither sufficient, nor appropriate. Sowing the seeds of doubt in the heads of the players and the club isn’t good preparation for important clashes.”
Former international scrum-half Galthie, who played at four World Cups and captained France in 2003 when they lost 24-7 against England in the semi-finals, spent four years as coach at Stade Francais between 2004 and 2008 before moving to the south coast.
White got off to a winning start last Saturday as the Top 14 strugglers beat European and French champions Toulon 16-12.