OM Press Conference: Genesio Prepares for Sturm Graz Match

The press conference ahead of Marseille's Europa League match against Sturm Graz has concluded. Coach Bruno Genesio spoke about various aspects of the team's current situation and the upcoming fixture.

Genesio addressed the midfield's complementary nature, noting the distinct roles of players like Kamissoko (defensive), Abdelli (offensive creation), and Nnadi (linking play, ball recovery, and projection). He highlighted the availability of other midfielders like Gomes, Hojbjerg, and Kondogbia, providing ample choice for team selection to ensure a balanced and effective midfield.

When asked about OM being favorites, Genesio disagreed, emphasizing Sturm Graz's European experience and their ability to trouble strong teams like Rennes. He described Sturm Graz as an intense team that applies high pressure and poses a significant physical and athletic challenge. Their verticality and quick transitions mean OM must be vigilant about turnovers.

Genesio prefers not to define a fixed starting lineup, stressing the importance of the entire squad and the contribution of players who feature less often. He noted the need for everyone to be 100% committed throughout a season with three competitions, pointing to recent injuries in other teams as a reminder of this necessity.

Regarding the team's physical condition, Genesio indicated progress, stating OM matched Angers, a team known for its physical performance, in terms of volume and high-intensity runs. He credited the work done since the season's start, acknowledging that physical preparation takes time and requires managing workload alongside regular matches. He also commended his staff's efforts in this area.

Genesio viewed the upcoming match not as a decisive one, but stressed the importance of securing points to improve their qualification standing and maintain momentum. He reflected on a peculiar start to the season, where the team often felt they deserved more despite not getting results, and acknowledged the positive impact of recent wins on team confidence. He noted players seemed more liberated in the second half of the Angers match, with young players confirming their potential and contributing to the staff's and group's confidence. The challenge remains to perform consistently every three days.

He elaborated on breaking a negative streak of four consecutive league defeats. While the team showed promising play in some losses, recent victories were crucial. The win against Angers combined a result with a solid performance, though a potential equalizer for Angers at 1-0 could have changed the game's outcome. Genesio believes a few more wins are needed to move out of the lower half of the standings and emphasized the importance of gaining points in the Europa League after a poor start.

On Pierre Højbjerg's contribution, Genesio highlighted his significant experience and leadership qualities. While not using the term "indispensable" due to competition, he acknowledged Højbjerg as a key player within the squad and dressing room, vital to their system.

Genesio confirmed Højbjerg's availability for the match would be assessed. He reiterated that Sturm Graz is an intense team with strong pressing and vertical play, expecting tough duels and high engagement, noting that European competition often presents a higher level of intensity than Ligue 1.

Regarding the squad, Alexi Koum is out due to illness. The coach noted the increased options for selection and the positive impact of competition. He was pleased with the early development of younger players and the return of key players. Antoine Valero has been integrated due to his performance with the reserve team, rewarding good behavior.

Genesio reiterated the team's poor start to the competition with two defeats. He stressed the need for approximately 9-11 points to advance in the Europa League, based on recent seasons, translating to three or four victories. The goal is to build on the win against Angers and maintain that positive trajectory, despite the different competition.

Defender Ulisses Garcia stated he feels good and is aware of the team's situation, expressing a strong desire to secure their first Europa League points. He feels the group is focused and ready. Garcia mentioned that playing in midfield occurred naturally during training due to midfield injuries and that he would gladly help in that position if the coach requested it, preparing for any eventuality.

Garcia acknowledged that two consecutive wins in Ligue 1 have boosted confidence, despite the earlier loss to Olympiacos. He anticipates a difficult match against Sturm Graz, with both teams pushing for victory, and believes duels will be decisive.

Having grown up not far from Austria, Garcia understands the league and anticipates no easy games. He noted Sturm Graz's recent impressive 6-1 victory, indicating their confidence. He stressed OM's need to impose their game to secure three points, recognizing Sturm Graz's motivation given their current single point.

Garcia admitted he hasn't had much playing time but feels well and is focused on pushing to earn more minutes. He understands the nature of professional football, emphasizing the need to be ready at all times and give maximum effort in training and matches.

The press conference concluded with the news that the team had wrapped up their media availability.