De Zerbi orders Olympique Marseille squad into Italian training retreat | OneFootball

Olympique Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has ordered the full squad into a training retreat in Italy, which might be the first of many in the closing weeks of the season.

The former Sassuolo, Shakhtar Donetsk and Brighton and Hove Albion boss is under pressure to secure Champions League qualification.

There were reports he could even be sacked before turning things around with a 5-1 victory over Montpellier on Saturday.

De Zerbi has been criticised by some players for his extreme discipline and harsh training methods, with some reportedly even threatening to go on strike.

His response was to plan a training retreat near Rome, which was confirmed by Olympique Marseille today.

They will stay at the Hotel Waldorf Astoria Cavalieri and train at the facilities of Roma City FC in Riano from this afternoon until Saturday.

Olympique Marseille give De Zerbi backing

BRADFORD, ENGLAND – AUGUST 3: Roberto De Zerbi manager of Olympique Marseille during the pre-season friendly match between Sunderland and Olympique Marseille at University of Bradford Stadium on August 3, 2024 in Bradford, England. (Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images)

“This decision to go on training camp was made collectively, at a time when every detail can make a difference,” insisted director Pablo Longoria on the club website.

“I know how committed Roberto is to his mission and how dedicated he is to our club. He works hard, with passion, method, and rigor, and has done so since day one.

“In a sometimes noisy environment, I want to make it clear: he has my full support.”

De Zerbi has hinted this will be a regular occurrence for a few days each week in the build-up to matches this season.

While training retreats are normal in Italian football, they remain very unusual elsewhere, but having one in Italy for a French club is particularly curious.

“It’s not a punishment, it’s simply to help the team reconnect,” insisted De Zerbi in a press conference.

“We decided that spending a few weeks together would allow us to prepare better for the future. The players agreed. It won’t change their lives, but it could change their careers.”