Former goalkeeper Stephane Ruffier (37) is claiming €7.12m in damages from Saint-Étienne, according to L’Équipe. The former France international has claimed compensation following ASSE suspending him for “serious misconduct” in 2021. Ruffier was suspended after allegedly refusing to wear a mask during COVID-19, leaving the club without authorisation and turning up late to training on several occasions.
Ruffier previously took Sainté to court in 2022 claiming a reported €5m in damages but new reports from L’Équipe reveal the total sum of the claim is €7.12m as heard at a tribunal on Monday. The former Monaco stopper is claiming several separate damages including: €2,613,106.29 in damages resulting from the moral harassment he suffered and the unfair execution of his contract; €3,252,343 in damages for his professional and career losses, and €137,076.22 for his salary deductions during lockdown layoff periods.
Ruffier’s case was heard at a tribunal on Monday but a final decision in the case is not expected to be made until 15 January 2024, subject to appeal.
