Sao Paulo:France defender Bacary Sagna will not fast during the holy month of Ramadan which begins during the FIFA World Cup, pointing out that Islam gives permission to Muslims to not fast in certain cases.
“As a Muslim I know some laws allow you to avoid fasting. I will not fast but I respect those who will practise it,” said the player of Senegalese origin, reports EFE.
Sagna is one of several French Muslim players who is facing the issue of fasting during World Cup. The list includes Karim Benzema, of Algerian descent, Paul Pogba, of Guinean descent, and Moussa Sissoko, of Malian descent.
“I have nothing to worry. I respect the religions around the world and the players are used to practise it. Everyone will adapt to the situation,” France manager Didier Deschamps said.
The ‘Les Bleus’ will meet Nigeria June 30 at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia for a place in the quarterfinals.