Ex-Liverpool defender Sakho leaves Montpellier after a clash with manager Michel der Zakarian
Former Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has left French club Montpellier following a clash with manager Michel der Zakarian.
According to L’Equipe, the incident occurred on October 24 in training after the defender was not given a foul by his manager and was later called a ‘cry baby’. Sakho then allegedly grabbed Der Zakarian by the collar and knocked him to the ground.
Montpellier released a statement: “Contrary to what has been said and relayed, no precautionary dismissal has been taken against Mamadou Sakho.
“After 10 days of reflection, both parties have agreed in good faith to end the contractual relationship between them.
“MHSC would like to thank Mamadou Sakho for his involvement during his time in Montpellier and wishes him, as well as his family, the best for the future.”
Former Liverpool player Mamadou Sakho involved in training bust-up
Sakho also confirmed that he was leaving the club following the incident that took place in training.
“You have to know how to leave the table when respect is no longer served. Following the incident that took place last week at the training centre and for which I decline all responsibility, I have decided on this day of 02/11/2023 to end my collaboration with Montpellier Herault Sports Club,” he wrote on Instagram.
The former Crystal Palace defender joined Montpellier in 2021 and has played 49 games, although just six of those came following Der Zakarian’s arrival in February.
Sakho’s spell with Liverpool also ended because of disciplinary issues. He was sent home from Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the United States in July 2016 as he was late on three separate occasions and did not play for the club again. He later joined Crystal Palace on loan in February 2017.
