Marseille head coach Roberto De Zerbi expressed his immense satisfaction after his team`s convincing 4-0 triumph over Lorient on Friday evening. He proclaimed this victory as the definitive `real start` to their season.
In his post-match comments, De Zerbi lauded the impressive display of his revamped squad, significantly bolstered by recent additions such as Arthur Vermeeren, Benjamin Pavard, and Nayef Aguerd. He noted, “We performed exceptionally well in the initial 25 minutes, excelling in every aspect – our pressing, our play, and our speed. We generated numerous scoring opportunities. It truly feels as though the season has only just begun for us today, given the influx of new players in recent days. While it`s officially the fourth matchday, it has the sensation of the very first.”
During the post-match press conference, De Zerbi specifically highlighted the strength of his reinforced defensive line. “Medina is incredibly strong, as are Aguerd and Pavard. We also possess the capability to threaten opponents from set pieces,” he stated. He added, “My only frustration is that we`re already on the fourth matchday, rather than the first, with these talented individuals. When you have good players, everything instantly becomes simpler.”
Looking ahead, De Zerbi emphasized their upcoming challenge: “We must approach the match in Madrid with the objective of securing a favorable result, balancing humility with strong ambition. This is the expectation placed upon us by both the city and the club. We enter the Champions League as a club rich in history, but we must never lose sight of our origins.”
The Olympiens are set to kick off their UEFA Champions League journey on Tuesday with an away fixture at the iconic Bernabéu. This pivotal week will also see De Zerbi`s squad host fierce rivals Paris Saint-Germain next weekend in the highly anticipated next chapter of Le Classique.
