Thierry Henry, a great of Arsenal, has expressed regret to Nigerians for remarks he made during the World Cup.
While covering the USA’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay on Saturday with fellow football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic for FOX Sports, the former France international faced criticism.
IShowSpeed, a well-known streamer, was seen sporting a United States Men’s National Team jersey and Nigerian shorts during the broadcast. Henry responded to the ensemble by saying, “I love Nigeria, but not today.” For you, today is USA.
In response, IShowSpeed questioned, “What’s wrong with Nigeria?”
“Nigeria is great,” Henry swiftly clarified his position. But shortly after Paraguay’s goal against the United States, the former Arsenal striker mockingly accused the streamer, saying: “You see? You are unlucky. You’re taking misfortune with you.
Some Nigerian fans moved to social media to condemn Henry after the comments, calling it disrespectful and insensitive.
The former player for Barcelona and Arsenal has now released a new video that addresses the entire issue.
“I needed to clarify something because I don’t think people understand when you say stuff sometimes or when a joke is a joke,” Henry replied.
“I simply spoke about the shorts of Nigeria and the top of the US. I just told him it is bad luck to break the set.
“If it had been shorts from France, Italy, or Spain, I would have said the same thing.” I was only making a joke with him, saying it would be terrible luck. Not Nigeria is bad luck, but breaking the set, because you travel as a group.
“I even stated that I adore Naija. And yes, I do. I respect Nigeria and its people. There are a lot of Arsenal fans out there, so please don’t mistake that.
“Nigeria never brings ill luck. “I was just saying that breaking the set is bad luck for any other shorts.”