Former Roma winger Gervinho has criticised the Giallorossi over the sacking of their previous coach Rudi Garcia, claiming the decision forced him to leave the club.
The Ivorian international was brought to Italy by Garcia, whom he also played under whilst at LOSC Lille in France, though parted ways for Chinese side Hebei China Fortune FC shortly after his expulsion.
“I cannot lie, the contract that they [Hebei Fortune] offered me was a very important factor in my move away,” Gervinho told L’Equipe.
“However, I remained shocked and very disappointed at Garcia’s sacking.
“For me, there was no reason whatsoever as to why he couldn’t have finished the season.
“Rudi was more than a coach, he fought hard to bring me to Rome.
“The club wanted to keep me after his departure but I told them that I wasn’t comfortable and that I wanted a clear head.
“When they put an end to Garcia’s contract, they simultaneously put an end to mine. I could not stay after that.”
