De Zerbi backs Aubameyang as Marseille prepare for Nantes with near full squad | OneFootball

Olympique de Marseille head coach Roberto De Zerbi struck a confident tone ahead of Sunday’s Ligue 1 clash with FC Nantes, confirming that he has a near fully-fit squad available and strongly defending Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following criticism aimed at the striker during the international break.

Defender Facundo Medina, who recently returned to action in the Coupe de France victory over Bourg-en-Bresse, also addressed the media at a press conference transcribed by La Provence. The Argentine admitted the ankle injury that sidelined him was the longest absence of his career.

“We have to keep the ambition of winning a trophy – for us, for our families, and for the supporters.” Medina also acknowledged that qualification for the 2026 World Cup with Argentina remains a personal goal, but insisted his focus is firmly on Nantes.De Zerbi was particularly emphatic when asked about Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who returned early from international duty with Gabon and has faced criticism in his home country.

“If Gabon don’t want Aubameyang, I’m very happy to have him,” De Zerbi said. “He is ready, 100%.” The Italian coach stressed that Aubameyang was never criticised internally and confirmed that a Marseille physio was sent to assist the striker while abroad. De Zerbi added that Aubameyang could feature on Sunday.GFFN | George Boxall