Concerns Grow at Marseille as Daniel Riolo Questions Squad Quality
Trouble is mounting at Olympique de Marseille as the Ligue 1 club struggles to find form early in the season. After just one point from two league games, scrutiny is intensifying not only on manager Marcelo Bielsa but also on the quality of the squad itself.
While many have debated Bielsa’s coaching methods, prominent French journalist Daniel Riolo has directed attention toward Marseille’s recruitment and player capabilities. Writing on his blog, Riolo, traditionally a defender of the Argentine coach, expressed deep concerns over the team’s current roster.
“French-made corporatism is in a trance! Let’s hope they get the Argentinian moralizer! The fans don’t know what to think anymore. They’re already booing. The club isn’t about to be reassured,” Riolo wrote.
He questioned the real level of several players, highlighting a mixed squad with some promising talents like Florian Thauvin, Dimitri Payet, and Giannelli Imbula, but pointed out significant weaknesses elsewhere. “What can Bielsa do with Brice Dja Djédjé? What about Mendy? Half the team still seems weak, no matter who’s in charge. The club cannot transform itself so quickly,” he added.
Marseille’s recent signings from smaller clubs such as Lorient, Le Havre, and Evian have raised eyebrows, with critics doubting whether these players can lift the team to the competitive level expected at a club of Marseille’s stature.
The atmosphere at the Stade Vélodrome remains tense as supporters grow increasingly restless and impatient for better results. Whether Bielsa’s tactical expertise can overcome these squad limitations remains to be seen in the coming weeks.
