French Cup Shock: André Ayew Slams Marseille’s “Unacceptable” Exit After Penalty Defeat to Grenoble
Marseille’s new year began in disarray after suffering a shock exit from the Coupe de France at the hands of fourth-tier side Grenoble Foot 38. Despite taking the lead on three separate occasions, OM were held to a dramatic 3-3 draw before losing 5-4 on penalties — a humbling blow for a side with top-tier ambitions.
The defeat, reported by Africa Top Sports and widely covered across French media, marks an embarrassing chapter for coach Marcelo Bielsa’s men, who were expected to progress comfortably against a team playing in France’s amateur CFA division.
While Bielsa sought to maintain a calm and analytical tone in the aftermath, one of Marseille’s senior figures, Ghana international André Ayew, did not hold back in his assessment.
Speaking to Eurosport, a visibly frustrated Ayew called the result “unacceptable” and questioned his side’s commitment during key moments of the match.
“We didn’t do what we should have done,” Ayew said. “Losing this match is unacceptable, unacceptable. We led three times. We have to move on and focus on the league. The first half wasn’t good — we weren’t aggressive enough. We need to get back into the right rhythm quickly.”
Ayew acknowledged that despite Grenoble’s lower status, the hosts displayed more determination and spirit — qualities that proved decisive over the course of the evening.
“We lost against a team weaker than us, but they showed that with a lot of desire and determination, great things are possible,” he added.
Marseille’s failure to secure victory despite their repeated advantages highlights worrying signs for a team hoping to challenge for the Ligue 1 title. Questions are likely to be raised over team mentality, defensive lapses, and leadership on the pitch — areas Bielsa will be pressed to address as the club re-centres its attention on domestic league ambitions.
Grenoble, meanwhile, celebrated one of the biggest nights in their recent history. The club’s gritty performance and nerve in the penalty shootout sent their supporters into raptures and reminded the footballing world why the Coupe de France retains its magic and unpredictability.
As for Marseille, the defeat serves as a stark warning. While talent may set expectations, desire and unity often decide the outcome. With Ayew’s emotional call for accountability ringing out, the coming weeks will test the squad’s resilience — and their readiness to fight for silverware elsewhere.
