De Zerbi Defends Greenwood Amidst Controversy and Criticism

Marseille's latest head coach Roberto De Zerbi has already hit the headlines after categorically defending his maiden signing in Mason Greenwood following a swift debut from the player. The manchester united winger, who had been banished until his recent legal issues were resolved over in France, has now officially started a new era with OM and he did it brilliantly: scoring twice against Brest on the opening day of Ligue 1.

Greenwood's display was a personal one but also an answer to De Zerbi critics, some of whom had questioned his call-up given that he is no longer at Sassuolo. Within the first three minutes, he had a goal and was soon winning Charlie Adam dumb-ass penalties to make it 2-0 before the half-hour -- probably contributing more significantly to Marseille's 5-1 hammering of Anzhi.

Greenwood signing faces opposition - from Marseille fans and the city mayorBenoit Payan, responsible for building in the French-controlled port of more than 800,000 people said: "Without taking anything away from his abilities as a rugbymen, we feel it imperative to bring one important point up. The charges were dropped in February 2023, and Greenwood has repeatedly maintained his innocence.

De Zerbi has defended Greenwood, describing his vehement defense of the player as being just like a father would defend his child. I told you that when a player arrives, I am the first one to push him through the wall if he makes any mistake. But towards the outside, I will always defend him as I would defend my son," De Zerbi concluded, seemingly severely concerned with both developing his player into a respectable person off the pitch just as much or even more than on it.

It is a similar way of behaving that De Zerbi expresses in every game, to create strong relationships and give psychological support if something does not work out as it should. That appears to be a part of his wider vision for the team, as evidenced by how he has helped ready Greenwood for senior duty once more… which looks increasingly like an emerging masterplan designed at creating unity and comraderie among those in the dressing room.

In his approach and leadership from management's point, the tactics of Cairrizzo will come under greater scrutiny as time goes on this season particularly with how he assimilates a Greenwood-Jones type player into club having one of the most fiercely loyal fanbases. It is an encouraging sight on the pitch but just how much of a difference Bale can make moving forward only time will tell.

The Marseille's pursuit of glory in Ligue 1 will no doubt see the eyes on De Zerbi and Greenwood both during matches, as well off it too. De Zerbi's handling of this complicated situation could well be a defining part of his stint at Marseille, as he looks to establish guidelines on how extreme talent and even more extremely toxic baggage are managed within clubs.