"I didn’t dare" : ex PSG player Jessica Houara denounces motherhood taboo in women’s football

On February 5, Canal+ Foot will broadcast Foosball: In the life of Amel MajriA documentary directed by Jessica Houara, former defender of the French team and PSG and sports consultant for Canal+. The former player tackles the topic of pregnancy, which is still a taboo in the world of women’s football. “While playing, I was one of the only married French team players. And I was always told, “Come on Jess, go ahead, have a baby, lead, lead.” But I was afraid of my future. Will the club accept him? Can I find my place again?… Full of fears. That’s why I didn’t do it, I didn’t dare. After my career, I had children.‘ he explained to our colleagues from TV Magazine.

Fears that Jessica explains with legal ambiguity, especially while still on the field: “We didn’t know where we were going, there was no legal right. We know very well that after three months an actor can no longer practice his profession. That’s why I was afraid to start too. confesses. A journalist from TV Magazine states that today a legal framework has been drawn up and that players take advantage of 14 weeks of maternity leave, 8 of which are after the birth of the child, and are guaranteed to be reintegrated into their team.

This documentary tracing the journey of Amel Majri is a personal experience that inspired Jessica Houara. Indeed, in 2022, Les Bleues’ midfielder became the first French international to become a mother. “So I told myself that we should follow it and observe motherhood in women’s football in France and women’s sport in general. Explains Jessica. If he hopes this movie will encourage French players to take risks, the sports consultant admits: “Being a mom and player and finding your level is not easy but possible! you must dare!“.

Foosball: In the life of Amel Majri, Sunday, February 5th at 12:15 PM on Canal+ Foot

Thierry-Claude