The rivalry between Marseille and Paris is experiencing a new unexpected episode as the Champions League final approaches. While PSG is preparing to challenge Inter Milan in Munich, an emblematic figure of Olympique de Marseille has decided to provide public support to the capital's club. It is the hero of the 1993 final, Basile Boli. A position that has not failed to trigger lightning among Marseille supporters, but also within the old Olympian guard, where some badly digest this unexpected rally.
It was Eric Di Meco, former OM defender and ex-teammate of the main interested party, who was most virulent. Present on RMC waves in the Super Moscato Show, Di Meco did not chew his words about Boli : “My feeling of me, deep, of former teammate is that I have a pain in the ass. It hurts me … After he is tall, he says what he wants, he has no accounts to get me. »» A filterless reaction, commensurate with the disappointment which crosses part of the Marseille people.
Support for PSG, misunderstanding in Marseille
Basile Boli, decisive scorer of the 1993 final, was justified by a national feeling: supporting the last French representative in the Champions League.“My heart remains blue and white but I am behind Paris-Saint-Germain because representing France, it is important for me”, he said. A speech that goes wrong with many fans and former clubs, for whom OM-PSG rivalry goes far beyond the results.
The debate also divides to the highest ranks of the club. Medhi Benatia, OM sports director, quickly reacted to recall that he wishes to see Marseille remain the only French club titled in Europe. On social networks, Marseille opinion clearly leans on the side of the Inter, and the exit of Boli appears for many as a symbolic betrayal.
Boli supports PSG, di Meco tackles it violently
History, identity and collective memory
If Basile Boli recalled his early ties with Paris – he who was a ball collector at the Parc des Princes – his release raises the question of the identity of OM legends at the time of the globalization of football. Between loyalty to the jersey and opening to the success of French clubs, the debate remains lively. One thing is certain: in Marseille, supporting PSG is to expose yourself to the storm.
