On an impressive series of six consecutive victories in all competitions and provisionally leader of Ligue 1, Olympique de Marseille travels to Lisbon this Wednesday with morale of steel to challenge Sporting in the Champions League. On the eve of this “see-saw match”, coach Roberto De Zerbi presented himself at a press conference. And far from being content with the usual caution, the Italian technician, visibly won over by the mentality of his group, delivered a declaration of love as rare as it was powerful to his players.
“One of my finest squads” in 13 years of career
It’s a sentence that says a lot about the state of mind that currently reigns at the Commanderie. Asked about the character of his team, De Zerbi did not hide his admiration. “ I have been a coach for 13 years (…) This is one of my best squads,” he asserted forcefully. A resounding declaration from a coach renowned for his demands, which testifies to his deep attachment to this group. “My success and my career depend on them,” he added, emphasizing his close relationship with his players.
Why such a crush? For the Italian, it is above all a question of mentality. He took the example of Igor Paixão, present at his side: “ You saw with Paixao, and this is what I see every day. He is humble and determined, he is focused on training. » He then extended his praise to the new recruits who immediately established themselves as leaders, citing Aguerd and Pavard in particular. “We are creating a very strong squad,” he insisted, convinced of the potential of his team.
De Zerbi sends a message of love to his group before Lisbon!
Humility and distrust, De Zerbi’s key words before Lisbon
But this declaration of love should not be confused with overconfidence. De Zerbi, the perfectionist, immediately called his troops to order. Faced with the series of victories, he warned: “ We will have to play with humility because we might think something wrong. » Aware of the quality of Sporting (“a very strong team in Portugal”, with a “very strong identity”), he warned: “ We're going to have to play the perfect match if we want to win, otherwise we won't win. » The head is not in euphoria, but in concentration.
This message of humility and determination is perfectly integrated by the players. Igor Paixão, in great shape, confirmed the group's state of mind. Recognizing the strength of the opponent, he promised total commitment: “We have excellent players, an excellent coach. (…) We're going to do everything and leave our blood on the lawn. » A warrior mentality which delights his coach and which will be essential to hope to bring back a result from Lisbon.
The European test for a special group
Roberto De Zerbi's press conference revealed a coach in love with his group, convinced of having a “special” squad in his hands due to his talent and character. His ability to mix this vibrant praise with a call to order on humility is the mark of his management. This shock against Sporting in the Champions League will be the perfect test for this “finest squad” who will have to prove on the European scene that their coach’s confidence is justified.
