Clarence Seedorf has expressed his sadness, over the lack of black managers currently working in football.
UEFA has announced a new ‘Captains of Change’ initiative, which is aimed at developing ethnic diversity within management positions in the sport, with former France international Christian Karembeu appointed as its ambassador.
“It is sad to see there are so few black coaches. Of the now retired players of colour, how many of them became coaches?” Seedorf told La Gazzetta dello Sport at the Respect Diversity event in Rome.
“It’s true that we shouldn’t only see the colour of someone’s skin, but this is an aspect too. Many colleagues opened the door towards drastic solutions, but there is no long-lasting solution yet.”
Speaking about the Captains of Change programme, UEFA president Michel Platini said: “I believe we are a diverse sport on the field, but more work must be done to ensure that extends into our administrative and management structures as well.
Seedorf also backed teams shaking hands and applauding opponents after matches, to encourage stronger psychological mentality within the game.
“Fiorentina had started doing it, then I don’t know why the idea stopped,” he said. “I think it ought to be obligatory, like in rugby, as it changes a lot in terms of psychological approach to the game too.”
“With a different protocol we’d all have to accept defeat. In three minutes you have to be there shaking hands with your opponent, because the game is over.
“It would be a cultural evolution and an education for those watching us.”
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