Netflix has just dropped its highly anticipated documentary, "The Bus: Les Bleus on Strike," diving into the chaos that engulfed the French national team during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. For fans of football—and especially those who love a good behind-the-scenes drama—this is a must-watch. The documentary unpacks the toxic atmosphere that led to the infamous training strike in Knysna, a moment that still haunts French football history.
What sets this film apart is its access to the personal logbook of then-manager Raymond Domenech. His unfiltered diary entries reveal a shocking level of disdain for his own players, painting a picture of a squad in complete disarray. The language is raw, and the contempt is palpable—here are some of the most explosive excerpts:
On the team as a whole: "Sometimes I have bursts of hatred toward these idiots."
On Yoann Gourcuff: "Gourcuff, what an idiot he is. First mildly autistic and then an idiot."
On Nicolas Anelka: "Anelka walked past me without looking at me. That piece of shit idiot..."
On Thierry Henry: "Thierry Henry was born on August 17. Typical Leo: he only looks at his own navel."
On William Gallas: "Gallas is always sulking. I won't put up with him much longer."
These entries help explain the suffocating environment that made the 2010 campaign a nightmare for Les Bleus. Perhaps most telling is Domenech's reaction to the players' strike itself. Rather than frustration, he expressed something close to relief: "It's your best collective act of the entire World Cup! The suicide is complete! Hallelujah!"
For sports fans, this documentary is a gripping look at one of football's most bizarre and dark chapters. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just love a good cautionary tale about leadership gone wrong, "The Bus" delivers a fascinating, unfiltered glimpse into the meltdown of a World Cup contender. And for those who appreciate the human side of the game—flaws, egos, and all—it's a reminder that even the brightest stars can fall prey to a fractured team dynamic.