Friend Says Ben Arfa Is 'Suffering in Silence' Amid PSG Freeze Out
Hatem Ben Arfa hasn't made an appearance for PSG since April 5th and a close friend claims that the Frenchman's exclusion from the side is mentally taking it's toll.
Sylvian Idanger is a very close friend to Ben Arfa, having played with him in the Lyon academy. He believes the lack of minutes for PSG is seriously affecting the former Newcastle ace and he's understandably concerned.
Speaking to L'Equipe Sylvian said: "I was afraid that old demons had returned and that he breaks down. I am worried all the time.
"What upsets me the most in this difficult period, is when we are the only two at the restaurant and he does not tell me that it is not okay, whereas I know, I can sense that he is not well."
He continued: 'He suffers in silence, it takes over him and he does not say anything about himself.
"In fact, Hatem, is one of the favourites in the dressing room, but the players don’t want to say it."
Ben Arfa was relegated to playing with the reserve team in September and actually perused legal action against PSG.
The Frenchman's lawyer Jean-Jacques Bertrand stated: "Legally, I think the club is violating the Professional Football Charter."
After this episode, PSG brought Ben Arfa back into the first team squad, but having started just nine games since arriving at the club in 2016 it seems he's still unhappy.
Another move for Ben Arfa is all but assured in the upcoming transfer window, as the forward looks to establish himself as a top player. The player we haven't seen since his purple patch at Newcastle and Nice.
