He said: "I know when I am at peak fitness I am worth my place in the France team or at least in the squad.
"I took the decision against my own heart but it seemed the best thing to do.
"I sense the French team is not led by the man it needs."
Petit continued: "Since my operation [on 15 May] we have practically not spoken. In my rare discussions with Jacques Santini my situation has never been clarified.
"At 32 I would like a more clear statement. He is someone who has difficulties taking on his responsibilities. He lets time and events dictate things. In this sense I am doing him a service."
Petit will be forever remembered by the French following for his third goal in the 3-0 humiliation of Brazil in the 1998 World Cup final in France itself.