Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has defended French soccer, saying Ligue 1 is stronger than it’s given credit score for overseas however has not been offered properly as a product.
“I believe Ligue 1 is a stronger league than individuals assume overseas,” De Zerbi mentioned on Friday because the Italian was requested for his view on the sport in France, the place he arrived forward of this season.
“It’s most likely badly offered by these in cost,” mentioned De Zerbi, who had spent the earlier two years as coach of Brighton and Hove Albion within the English Premier League.
The previous boss of Sassuolo in Serie A and Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk has led Marseille to second place in Ligue 1 after 15 video games, though they’re 10 factors behind runaway leaders Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning champions.
“Outdoors of France, Ligue 1 is taken into account a low-level championship, but it surely’s not the case in any respect,” added the Marseille coach, whose staff face Le Havre at dwelling on Sunday.
“There are actually good gamers and coaches, full stadiums and nice supporters.”
Ligue 1 has lengthy been seen because the poor relation of Europe’s greatest leagues in England, Spain, Germany and Italy, whereas its golf equipment repeatedly underperform in continental competitions.
The French league has additionally been undermined by a broadcasting deal which sees it earn far lower than its rivals.
“I believe Ligue 1 just isn’t offered as properly (as a product) and doesn’t have the identical mild shone on it because the Premier League, which is one of the best league in Europe, or Serie A, La Liga and the Bundesliga,” mentioned the 45-year-old De Zerbi.
“I do not know if it has been badly managed, or simply badly offered overseas. In Italy in any case, no person can see Marseille’s video games and that could be a disgrace.
“Gamers transfer on from Ligue 1 to play in England, Germany and in all places.
“France is a rustic that loves soccer. It’s a disgrace that it isn’t appreciated overseas for what it has to supply,” added the Italian.
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