## Ligue 1: Underrated and Underpromoted
Roberto De Zerbi, the Marseille coach, recently ignited a debate about the perception of Ligue 1, France’s top football league. While acknowledging its strength, De Zerbi believes Ligue 1 suffers from poor marketing, leading to an undeservedly low international profile. [2]
De Zerbi, drawing on his experience coaching in england, Italy, and Ukraine, asserts that Ligue 1 boasts talented players, skilled coaches, passionate fans, and electrifying atmospheres. However, he argues that the league’s true potential remains untapped due to inadequate promotion.He cites the limited international broadcasting of Ligue 1 matches as an example. For instance, Serie A fans in France were unable to watch Italian league games until late October, highlighting the lack of accessibility. This limited exposure hinders the league’s ability to attract a wider global audience.
Furthermore, De zerbi points out that top players and coaches often leave Ligue 1 for more established leagues like the Premier League, Bundesliga, or Serie A. This exodus,while understandable,reinforces the perception of ligue 1 as a stepping stone rather than a destination league.
De Zerbi’s comments echo a growing sentiment that Ligue 1 needs to elevate its marketing and branding efforts to compete wiht its European counterparts. By showcasing its strengths and increasing its global visibility, Ligue 1 can attract more fans, sponsors, and top talent, ultimately solidifying its position as a premier football league.
Is Ligue 1 Underrated? A Conversation with Former french International, Youri Djorkaeff
Youri Djorkaeff, a name synonymous with French football prowess, has bravely tackled numerous challenges on the pitch.From spearheading Bordeaux’s attack to conquering the world with France in 1998, Djorkaeff has witnessed firsthand the evolution of Ligue 1.Today, he joins us to unpack Roberto De Zerbi’s recent comments declaring Ligue 1 “underrated and underpromoted”.
Moderator: Youri, De Zerbi argues Ligue 1 suffers from a lack of global exposure, citing limited international broadcasting as a prime example. do you agree with his assessment?
Djorkaeff:
Roberto has a point. when I played in France, the league was already fantastic, bursting with talent. But you’re right, the world didn’t always see it.We need to be honest, the Premier League’s global reach is undeniable. Ligue 1 needs to find ways to bridge that gap, to showcase itself to a wider audience.
Moderator: Some argue that the exodus of top players and coaches to leagues like the Premier League reinforces the perception of Ligue 1 as a stepping stone,not a destination. What are your thoughts?
Djorkaeff:
It’s a complex issue. Players naturally seek opportunities, and sometimes, those opportunities lie elsewhere. British clubs, especially those in the Premier League, have enormous financial muscle.They can offer salaries and exposure that are hard to resist.
But there’s another side to the coin. French clubs need to invest more in infrastructure, in creating an surroundings where top players can see a future, a long-term vision, not just a springboard.
Moderator: de Zerbi praises Ligue 1’s passionate fans and electrifying atmospheres. Do you think that’s an undervalued asset?
Djorkaeff:
Absolutely. The passion of the french fans is legendary. They live and breathe football.This intensity is something I deeply miss. It’s a unique energy that sets Ligue 1 apart.
Moderator: So, what can Ligue 1 do to realise its potential?
Djorkaeff:
Firstly, we need to improve the league’s global visibility.I’m not talking about just broadcasting more games. We need to tell stories, create compelling narratives around the league’s history, its talents, its passion. We need to make Ligue 1 irresistible to worldwide audiences.
Secondly, French clubs need to be more ambitious. They need to compete on the transfer market,attract and retain world-class talent,not just be seen as a selling league.
Moderator:
Youri, thank you for your insights. we want to hear from our readers.
What are your thoughts on Ligue 1’s standing in the global football landscape? Is it truly underrated? Share your views in the comments below! Let’s keep this conversation going.
