De Zerbi Provides Fresh Insights on Choosing Bakola

Roberto De Zerbi expressed his excitement regarding Darryl Bakola’s performance. “I was really impressed with him. Even in the first half when he missed a few passes, I liked his personality, his courage, and the way he played, despite some mistakes. Players don’t mature like apricots on a tree; they develop on the field. So, taking risks is important. It was his day, and the Vel’ stadium is welcoming for young talents from his training center, helping him even through his errors. I preferred him over Angel Gomes because of his physicality; Newcastle was going to press hard, and he was crucial for ball retention. I told him to play like he would with his friends, without pressure.” For the Marseille coach, this young talent was ideally suited to meet the opposing team’s intensity and play a key role in such an important match.

When asked about the timing of this bold choice, De Zerbi confidently stood by his decision: “There are things I feel, and I trust my instincts. I sensed it was the right evening for Bakola; I thought a little mental lightness was needed. Playing a 17-year-old shows courage from the coach. This decision could also inspire courage in others. The technical aspect I had prepared for the match required Bakola’s characteristics more than those of O’Riley, who is left-footed, or Gomes. I had considered Greenwood as a number 10 and Weah on the right wing, but Aguerd was unavailable. It was simply the right choice to include Bakola.” An intuitive flash turned into a winning move for OM.