Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival at the Olympique de Marseille for his second season is marked by a deep connection and personal involvement that continue to be at the heart of the discussions. To understand the extent of this connection, it is crucial to remember a passionate statement that he had initially made, setting out the foundations of his attachment to the city and the club. These statements, made even before taking the technical bar, are now a true manifesto of his Marseille commitment.
For De Zerbi, Marseille was not just a professional opportunity, but a football fascination from the start. This fascination was born of admiration for the history and grandeur of the club, as well as a transmission that marked it. He describes the city as a complex place of identity, precisely what makes it so appealing and generous for those who take the time to understand it. This personal connection is intrinsically linked to his vision of the coaching profession.
De Zerbi sees sports performance as inseparable from a sense of well-being and belonging to a place. This philosophy, which he establishes as a fundamental principle of his approach to coaching, confirms that he did not choose Marseille by chance. After a first season, this connection proved to be its major asset, and it will undoubtedly be essential for OM’s success in the coming year.