Hearts of Oak head coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, has made it clear he will not tolerate insults from journalists, stating firmly that he is “not Jesus Christ” to simply forgive and forget.
Known for his fiery relationship with the media, Ouattara has had several confrontations with journalists during his pre- and post-match interviews in the Ghana Premier League. His latest remarks came after Hearts’ recent victory over Medeama, where he questioned the motives behind some of the media’s criticisms.
Speaking to Accra-based Hot FM, Ouattara warned that any journalist who insults or attacks him, either on air or in person, should expect a similar response.
“If you (a journalist) come before me with the same attitude you used to insult me on radio, I will respond accordingly,” he said. “You came here with a personal opinion about me, not about the match. Nobody feeds anyone here, so say whatever you want.”
Despite his clashes with some members of the press, Ouattara pointed out that he maintains good relationships with journalists who criticize him professionally without resorting to personal attacks.
“There are journalists who criticize me for a whole week without insulting me, and when we meet, I still speak with them because I know they’re just doing their job,” he added. “But if you insult me somewhere and I hear it, or you stand before me and speak out of line, I’m not Jesus Christ I won’t just let it go. I will respond.”
Ouattara’s tense relationship with the media has often overshadowed his tactical work, turning his media appearances into major talking points across the country.
