Genesio demands return of ambition to OM after Europa League elimination

Bruno Genesio sounded the alarm at a press conference on Saturday, the day after Olympique de Marseille’s elimination by Olympiakos in the Europa League. The Marseille manager is demanding a return to ambition ahead of the trip to Angers on Sunday in Ligue 1.

“I hope ambition will return. When you are OM, you have to be at the top of the table, ambitious in European competitions, especially in the Champions League, the most beautiful one. There is a history with European football at our club,” said the coach. A straightforward message as recent results have weakened the Phocaean project.

Genesio refuses to sink into pessimism, however. He sees this difficult period as an opportunity to rebuild on solid foundations. “If this difficult period, at all levels, can allow us to lay the groundwork and foundations for a sustainable project for the coming seasons, that will be a success,” he explained. He also mentioned the need for awareness about sporting and financial choices to come.

When asked about individual performances, the manager refused to publicly name culprits. “I don’t like to comment on players’ performances in front of you. I do it with them, collectively or individually. What I tell them is between them and me,” he recalled, while acknowledging that some substitutes could have had more impact on recent matches.

Against Angers, the objective is clear: secure a second consecutive league victory to regain serenity in the standings. “If we have the good fortune to string together a second consecutive success in the league, it will allow us to return to a calmer zone in terms of points and regain confidence,” Genesio said. Before concluding on his absolute priority: “As against Troyes, the most important thing will be the result.”