José-Karl Pierre-Fanfan analyzed OM's defense after their victory against Nantes, emphasizing that there are still adjustments to be made, particularly in terms of defensive complementarity. If individuals like Balerdi, Kondogbia and Rulli are promising, the team still needs to work on its defensive collective to achieve an optimal level of cohesion.
For Provence, José-Karl Pierre-Fanfan, consultant for Canal +, analyzed OM's defense after their victory against Nantes, emphasizing that there are still adjustments to be made. According to him, Roberto De Zerbi has not yet found his typical defense, although he seems to favor the association between Leonardo Balerdi et Geoffrey Kondogbia in the axis. The former defender highlighted the need for specialists on the wings, such as Pol Lirola and Quentin Merlin, but also noted a lack of defensive coordination within the team. “OM relies too much on individuals rather than a true defensive collective”he explained, adding that the complementarity, visible in the middle and in attack, is still absent in defense.
Pierre-Fanfan also insisted on the necessary progress in this sector. “It’s not a construction site, but there is still plenty of room for improvement. They will get there, especially with an exceptional Rulli who has already saved several decisive situations. » Concerning individual performances, Pierre-Fanfan stressed that certain players, like Balerdi, must return to their best level. “Being captain is not easy, you have to be an example for the team. It's up to him to find the right balance between his personal performance and his role as leader. »
Install the hinge Balerdi – Kondogbia ?
Regarding Kondogbiarepositioned in defense after the arrival of Rabiot in the middle, Pierre-Fanfan clarified that the French international must still adapt to this new position. “Kondogbia has experience, but he needs to get his bearings in defense. He has the confidence of De Zerbi, but he and Balerdi must provide more security game after game. » The former defender also mentioned Lilian Brassierinitially planned in central defense, but which was moved to the side. “He must assume this transition and adapt quickly between Brest and Marseille”he concluded.
This analysis highlights the challenges facing the OM defense this season, while highlighting the qualities and progress expected from key players like Balerdi and Kondogbia.
