Marseille manager Bruno Genesio has welcomed Zinedine Zidane’s appointment as France manager, though he insists the achievements of predecessor Didier Deschamps must not be forgotten amid the excitement of the new era. Speaking to local media during pre-season preparations, Genesio struck a balance between looking forward and respecting the past.
“I am like all French people,” Genesio said. “First of all, I would like to underline the work of Didier Deschamps because we live in a world where people forget things very quickly. I am very happy with the arrival of Zinedine Zidane, but I would like to emphasise what Deschamps has done for 14 years. It is exceptional. I feel that sometimes we have lacked some respect concerning that.”
Deschamps’ departure brought an end to one of the most successful managerial tenures in the history of the France national team. Genesio stressed that the outgoing coach’s 14-year record deserves greater appreciation as the national team enters a new chapter.
Genesio confident in Zidane’s credentials
Despite his insistence on honouring Deschamps’ legacy, Genesio expressed strong support for the new appointment. The Marseille-born Zidane returns to management for the first time since leaving Real Madrid in 2021.
Genesio pointed to Zidane’s remarkable achievements at the Spanish club as evidence of his suitability for the role. “As soon as Didier announced his departure, we wanted to have the name of who would replace him,” Genesio continued. “We will have someone with legitimacy from his career as a player, but not only that, because what he achieved during his time at Real Madrid, winning the Champions Leagues, was exceptional.”
During his time in the Spanish capital, Zidane guided Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, establishing himself among Europe’s elite coaches.
Maintaining standards
The Marseille manager believes Zidane’s approach will ensure France remain competitive at the highest level. “I think we trust him, his work and his method, which will hopefully keep French football at the highest level for years to come,” Genesio said.
Zidane’s connection to Marseille adds a notable dimension to his return to French football, though he will now operate on the international stage. His task will be to maintain the standards set during Deschamps’ lengthy reign while imprinting his own identity on the squad.