Marseille Coach Bielsa Criticises African Internationals Amid Busy Schedule
Marseille head coach Marcelo Bielsa has expressed clear dissatisfaction with the condition of his African internationals following their involvement in recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
For the Ligue 1 fifth matchday clash against Evian, Bielsa included Togolese midfielder Alaixys Romao alongside compatriots Nicolas Nkoulou, André Ayew, and Brice Dja Djédjé in the starting lineup.
However, the Argentine coach opted not to include new Brazilian signing Doria in the squad, citing fitness and tactical considerations.
Marseille Starting XI: Mandanda – Dja Djédjé, Nkoulou, Morel, Mendy – Romao, Imbula – Payet, Thauvin, Ayew – Gignac.
Substitutes: Samba, Fanni, Sparagna, Lemina, Barrada, Batshuayi, Alessandrini.
Bielsa’s comments underline the challenges Marseille face in managing player fitness during a congested international calendar.
