Meaning: The quote "Only two journalists followed the team around." by Just Fontaine, a renowned French footballer, reflects a time when media coverage of sports events was not as expansive as it is today. Just Fontaine is a legendary figure in the world of football, known for his extraordinary goal-scoring prowess during the 1950s and 1960s. This quote provides a glimpse into the media landscape of that era and sheds light on the limited coverage that sports teams received.

During Fontaine's playing career, which reached its peak during the 1950s, the media environment was vastly different from what it is today. Unlike the modern era, where sports events are extensively covered by a multitude of journalists, photographers, and media outlets, the coverage of sports teams and their activities was relatively limited during Fontaine's time. This was especially true for football, which, despite being immensely popular, did not receive the same level of media attention as it does today.

When Fontaine mentioned that "Only two journalists followed the team around," he was highlighting the scarcity of media coverage that surrounded football teams and their activities. This scarcity of coverage meant that the players' actions, performances, and off-field endeavors were not scrutinized and analyzed to the extent that they are today. In essence, the quote underscores the modest media presence that characterized sports journalism during that era.

It is important to consider the broader context in which Fontaine made this statement. The 1950s marked a period of transition for the media landscape, with technological advancements and societal changes gradually shaping the way news and information were disseminated. Unlike today, where digital platforms and social media have revolutionized the dissemination of news and sports coverage, the 1950s were characterized by a more traditional and restrained approach to journalism, especially in the realm of sports.

In addition to the limited number of journalists covering sports events, the methods of reporting and documenting sports activities were also markedly different during Fontaine's era. Unlike the instantaneous updates and live coverage that are now commonplace, journalists had to rely on print media, radio broadcasts, and, to a limited extent, television to deliver sports news to the public. This meant that the dissemination of information was slower, and the depth of coverage was more constrained compared to the present day.

Fontaine's quote also underscores the personal relationships that existed between athletes and journalists during that time. With only a few journalists following the team around, there was likely a greater sense of familiarity and intimacy between the players and the media representatives. This stands in stark contrast to the contemporary media environment, where athletes are constantly under the spotlight and are subject to intense media scrutiny.

In conclusion, Just Fontaine's quote "Only two journalists followed the team around." offers valuable insight into the media landscape of his time, particularly concerning the coverage of sports events. It serves as a reminder of the significant evolution that sports journalism has undergone, with the modern era characterized by extensive media coverage, instantaneous updates, and a pervasive presence of digital platforms. Understanding the historical context in which this quote was made allows us to appreciate the transformation of sports media and the profound impact it has had on the coverage of athletes and sports events.