Roberto De Zerbi and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were keen to credit Marseille’s fans for their statement 3-0 win over Rennes.
OM easily dispatched their opponents to make the quarter-finals of the Coupe de France, coming after a string of poor results.
Marseille were knocked out of the Champions League on Matchday 8 and then gave up a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Paris FC and leave De Zerbi on the brink.
However, a meeting was organised between the playing staff and leaders from ultra groups at the club’s training ground, and according to those present it certainly helped, even with reports claiming things got ‘heated’.
“Our supporters are more intelligent and knowledgeable than people think,” De Zerbi said. “They almost always tell the truth.
“They were disappointed in Bruges, and rightly so, it was a shameful match. When a team gives you the impression of being strong, it’s normal to have expectations. Sometimes they are met, sometimes not.
“The fans told us some valid points on Monday at the training ground.”
Referring to some critical banners ahead of the Rennes match, he added: “At the stadium, they were with us, and their support went beyond the banners; it was legitimate and just.”
OM’s most senior voice in the dressing room was in agreement.
“They often defend us and we had to repay them by qualifying,” Aubameyang said. “We’re not stopping here, we have to go all the way.
“As I told the fans, we, as veterans, are the ones who get the message across.
“I already experienced this two years ago, I’ve already delivered the message.
“It was good for some who are new to the club to meet the fans and understand how this city—Marseille, quite simply—works.
“It was beneficial for everyone. We had talked enough; we needed action on the pitch, and we did. We need to find this consistency and give our all.
“We have a very good group, but we were missing that little something.
“Yesterday, realising that people come to the stadium and that some are struggling… that’s the reality of the situation.
“We talked a lot, even after the meeting. It was a good thing for everyone.”
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