Bruno Genesio backs Zinedine Zidane to keep France ‘at the highest level’ | OneFootball

Speaking to local media and Get French Football News during pre-season preparations, Marseille manager Bruno Genesio, has welcomed Zinedine Zidane’s appointment as France manager, but insists that Didier Deschamps’ achievements during his 14 years in charge of Les Bleus must not be forgotten.“I am like all French people,” said the Marseille manager. “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. However, attention quickly turned towards his potential successor, with Zidane long considered the natural candidate to take charge.

“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.”

“I think we trust him, his work and his method, which will hopefully keep French football at the highest level for years to come.”

Zidane’s appointment marks his return to management after his second spell with Real Madrid came to an end in 2021. The Marseille-born coach established himself among Europe’s leading managers during his time in the Spanish capital, most notably guiding the club to three consecutive Champions League titles.GFFN | George Boxall – Reporting from La Commanderie, Marseille.