Marseille Faces Fan Discontent Following Draw Against Strasbourg

omidbasir- Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood appeared to put Marseille on track for a much-needed victory, scoring the opening goal in just 14 minutes. Amine Gouiri extended the lead with a second goal early in the second half. However, a late collapse saw Strasbourg find their way back into the match, equalizing with a penalty from Joaquin Panichelli in the dying moments, leading to widespread discontent among the home supporters at the Stade Vélodrome.

Reports from La Provence indicate that tensions escalated following the match, as fans expressed their frustration over the team’s performance. Many supporters demanded the resignation of the club’s management, using banners and chants to voice their dissatisfaction. In response to the unrest, access to the Jean-Bouin stand was restricted as a precautionary measure.

Although calm was eventually restored, the events served as a stark reminder to the Marseille leadership regarding the growing discontent among fans about the team’s performance.

The draw against Strasbourg has left Marseille in fourth place in the Ligue 1 standings, now 12 points behind league leaders Lens. The team is currently under the direction of caretaker coach Jacques Abardonado, following the recent dismissal of Roberto De Zerbi on February 11. De Zerbi’s departure came after a significant 5-0 defeat against arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain, which reportedly strained his relationship with the players.

Sources indicate that De Zerbi’s position had become untenable, leading to late-night discussions about his future, culminating in the decision to part ways. A close associate of De Zerbi noted that he was aware of his precarious situation following the loss in Paris and expressed his confusion over the team’s performance.

De Zerbi, known for his demanding coaching style, was reportedly devastated by his players’ attitudes following a demoralizing Champions League exit, which had been preceded by a 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge. Despite being under contract until 2027, the club announced his departure in a statement that emphasized the need for change to meet the sporting challenges ahead.

Marseille expressed gratitude for De Zerbi’s dedication and professionalism, particularly acknowledging the team’s second-place finish in the previous season, and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Fan sentiment suggests that further changes within the club’s boardroom are necessary, with additional protests anticipated in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, it is imperative for Greenwood and his teammates to redirect focus to the pitch, as the one-cap England international is currently enjoying a productive season, having netted a career-best 23 goals this term. Marseille’s next match will be an away fixture against Brest on Friday.