Called up to compete in the World Cup when he only had his first selections at the start of preparation, Paul Boudehent lived “a few special days”, as explained by the third line of La Rochelle, Tuesday, a few days after the announcement of the list.
How did you welcome the news of your presence in the list of 33 players called up for the World Cup?
“I was super happy. Honored, even. I know all the effort you have to make and the quality of the players who weren’t lucky enough to be in the 33. I realize that I’m being given my chance but it’s huge. I’m so happy, nothing more, nothing less.”
Do you, despite everything, have to contain your joy because some teammates aren’t?
“Out of respect for those who are not there, we hold back our joy. Necessarily. I put myself in their place. It’s a really unclear situation. We have buddies, friends who are not on this list, who are not going to continue with us… It’s a few special days, between joy and melancholy. Out of respect, I really don’t want… (he blows) It’s complicated.”
Is there any awareness on your part during the season?
“Good question (smile). Necessarily. In all the careers of all players, there are ups and downs. Me, the chance I had was to have played with La Rochelle, that we had a great season, a great end to the season by playing the final stages… As a player, it’s is much easier for me to show myself, (to show) what I can do. And it’s all the more motivating in the final phase, with high-stakes matches, in great stadiums. It helped me a lot to play with La Rochelle, in this squad.