Roberto De Zerbi Issues a Major Apology!

After a hectic summer transfer window, Marseille has regained stability. They currently lead Ligue 1 with five consecutive wins and recently delivered a strong performance against Ajax Amsterdam in the Champions League, despite an opening loss to Real Madrid (2-1). This week, the team faced Sporting CP, aiming for their seventh straight victory. However, events took an unexpected turn in Lisbon. After taking the lead with a stunning goal from Igor Paixao, Marseille was reduced to ten men before halftime due to a second yellow card for Emerson. In the second half, they struggled against Sporting’s pressure and ultimately lost the match, a frustrating defeat that raised questions about coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Criticism followed De Zerbi for his tactical decisions, particularly for substituting Mason Greenwood at halftime to reorganize the team. This change did not yield the desired results and hampered the team’s offense. In a press conference ahead of the match against RC Lens, De Zerbi clarified his tactical choices: “ I explain my vision. If we consider that five teams played with one less player during this Champions League matchday… We experienced a similar situation against Lyon last year when we went down to ten men. I withdrew Vermeeren for Egan Riley to add quality and strength. However, we did not execute our plan as intended. I wanted us to play higher up the pitch. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. I’ve also heard inaccurate claims that I always talk about courage. When Greenwood went off, we still had two forwards on the field. Weah is more offensive than Clauss. I prefer attacking football, and I would love to win every match 5-0. Beyond ambition and courage, we must also be humble; we were down to ten men.”

De Zerbi Takes Responsibility for Defeat in Portugal

Addressing questions about his tactics and the preference for a stronger defense instead of seeking a second goal for safety, the Italian coach admitted he could have been less cautious: “In the first half, it was only Marseille on the pitch, and the opposition was booing. The match changed due to an error by Emerson. I did not want us to defend solely. Against PSG, I was pleased initially, but I wasn’t happy with the second half. This issue isn’t necessarily about the Lisbon match. We are still too focused on the immediate result. Honest analysis is essential. I am not infallible; I make mistakes. When I do, I take responsibility and admit it. I wish I could replay that match. Sporting had three chances in the second half; there wasn’t much danger, but we were too deep. It might be my fault.”

Despite acknowledging his mistake, the former Sassuolo manager expressed optimism for the future. He urged supporters to maintain a positive outlook for the upcoming match against Lens: “ I expect us to play very well. Fans shouldn’t be sad or disappointed with the Sporting match. While the defeat hurt, we could have performed better, but they should focus on the positives from the first half. The second half didn’t showcase football as we know it. The first half provided many positive insights. We need to concentrate on maintaining balance; not everything is perfect when we win. In the second half against PSG, we struggled. Although we assess the Sporting match negatively, it doesn’t change my analysis of the game.” The message is clear!