Benatia alerts: “The absence of Champions League would be a disaster”

A few days from the reception of Montpellier at the Stade Vélodrome, the anxiety rises at the Olympique de Marseille. Mehdi Benatia, the club’s sports director, has clearly expressed his dismay at the possibility of a season without qualification for the prestigious Champions League. In an interview with La Provence, the former central defender stressed that this situation would constitute a “major failure” given the efforts and investments made by the club.

“If there was no Champions League, it would be a disaster,” said Benatia. “When we see all the work that was done, the team we built to go to C1, I couldn’t agree to be on the podium on April 20 and more on May 18.” The sports director stressed the pressure exerted on the club, while OM fought for a podium in Ligue 1.

Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille coach, also addressed the issue at a press conference. After the defeat in Monaco (1-0), he called for a “collective reaction” and expressed his desire to see his team “take the last five games of the season.” He stressed the need to prove his superiority on the ground, stressing that “the result is not written”.

De Zerbi emphasized the balloon’s speed of circulation, accuracy in the last gesture and constant concentration. It recognizes the difficulties encountered, particularly in defence, and could consider a more offensive approach, while stressing the importance of collective balance. “The game system is not the solution. We need the brain, the heart and the balls,” he said, sending a clear message to his players.

OM, currently second, will have to score at least two hits in its next two games, against Montpellier and Brest, to maintain its qualifying chances in the Champions League. The pressure is strong, and Marseille fans are looking forward to seeing if their team will be able to meet these expectations and achieve its goal of returning to the European scene.