According to L’Equipe, De Zerbi’s methods behind the scenes are turning a talented squad against him. Marseille have been struggling for results of late, suffering four defeats through their last five Ligue 1 fixtures.
That has not gone down well. It is claimed that De Zerbi told his players "I won’t train you today" in the aftermath of their 3-1 loss at Reims. His squad reportedly responded by saying: "Then we won’t train either."
AFP
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Director of football Mehdi Benatia is said to have stepped and tried to restore order, informing those on lucrative contracts that they need to justify the "club’s financial investment in them". The ex-Bayern Munich and Juventus defender was asked if his former employers would tolerate such erratic behaviour from their head coach.
WHAT NEXT FOR MARSEILLE?
De Zerbi reportedly ordered players to spend the night at Marseille’s training centre following their last league setback, with rest days on Sunday and Monday being cancelled. Tensions are now running high, with Greenwood and Co set to return to action this weekend at home to Toulouse.