Olympique de Marseille concluded the year 2024 in impressive fashion by winning 0-4 against Saint-Étienne in the Coupe de France. If the victory was clear, Roberto De Zerbi also took the opportunity to send a message to five of his players…
The Marseille coach first praised the performance of his players in the first half, where OM dominated ASSE quite clearly. “We had a very good first half, we could have scored even more goals”he declared. However, De Zerbi did not fail to point out that in the second half, his team relaxed its intensity a little, offering two chances to Saint-Étienne which could have changed the game. “It was a bit stupid”he admitted, while remaining satisfied with the final result.
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A controlled first half, but necessary adjustments
The coach recalled that the Coupe de France remains an important competition for him, just like the championship. “There is no difference, all competitions are important. We face all matches to win them”he insisted, thus displaying his ambition to aim high in all competitions.
The five players under close surveillance
Despite the victory, De Zerbi also expressed higher expectations for certain players in his squad. “I would like Koné, Wahi, Rowe, Brassier or Cornelius to have a better understanding of the game.”
Ishmael KonéCanadian midfielder, is one of those who still needs to refine his game. Although he has shown promising qualities, De Zerbi wants Koné to develop better tempo management and a greater influence in the balance of the team in midfield.
Elye Wahithe French striker, is also one of the players who must improve. Despite his obvious offensive potential, the coach wants him to improve his movements and his choices in the final meters, in order to be even more decisive.
Jonathan RoweEngland winger, is another player who has impressed with his liveliness, but De Zerbi expects more from him in terms of decision-making.
Lilian Brassiercentral defender, must also improve. Although solid defensively, De Zerbi expects from him a better reading of the phases of play and a little more calm in moments of pressure, particularly during transitions and when the ball needs to be returned cleanly.
Finally, Derek CorneliusCanadian central defender, is also a player who must progress in his tactical understanding. De Zerbi hopes that he will gain maturity, particularly in his aerial play and his management of defensive duels.
The intact ambition of OM
Despite his high expectations, De Zerbi also highlighted his team's progress. “If we look at our latest results, we can be satisfied and I am proud of my players”he declared after the victory. However, the coach knows that OM must still evolve and that these five players must reach a new level to allow the team to achieve its ambitious objectives.
De Zerbi's work seems to be paying off, but the coach continues to strive for perfection. By relying on a solid team and a group in constant evolution, OM can expect a decisive month of January, where these players will have to prove themselves to continue to shine.
