If the matches between OM and PSG are often conducive to verbal slip-ups, do not count on Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi to add fuel to the fire. Quite the contrary.
This Friday, at a press conference, two days before the match on the 9th day of Ligue 1, the Italian coach praised the qualities of his Parisian counterpart Lui Enrique, whom he considers “one of the best coaches in the world” . “This has been the case for years,” explains the man who has changed the face of OM since his arrival in Canebière last summer. Not just since he was at PSG. He has demonstrated that he is a top coach. This is obviously a reference for me. He has a matrix that I like in his game.”
The former Brighton technician never had the opportunity to speak with the ex-Barça player but says he appreciates “the way he behaves” even if the two men are not really similar in that regard. .
After their big victory in Montpellier (5-0), the Olympians approach the reception of the great rival with confidence, especially since PSG, still ineffective in front of goal, remains on a sad 1-1 against PSV in the Ligue des champions and is only three points ahead in the L 1 standings. But De Zerbi is careful not to show any lack of humility.
“I don’t know if they are stronger or weaker than last year”
“It’s difficult to play against these teams. If we block the axis and the midfield, we risk leaving Barcola and Dembélé on the lanes one against one. If we block the sides, it risks giving them more possession. You have to find the right mix, he summarizes. But we must not forget that we are OM, that we want to have the ball. It will be difficult, but at OM you have to have the ambition to be able to win these matches. Otherwise, you might as well change clubs”
The Italian refuses to enter into the debate of Paris’ supposed weakness this season. “PSG is not my team. I focus on OM. I don’t know if they are stronger or weaker than last year, he says. OM must prepare for all matches to be actors and protagonists. This is done against PSG or any team, this year or in two seasons. That’s more what keeps me up at night, not knowing if PSG is stronger or weaker than in previous years.”
