De Zerbi stands firm in defence of Bennacer amid harsh French media criticism

Roberto De Zerbi has publicly defended Ismaël Bennacer following criticism from the French press, standing by the Algerian midfielder after a mixed reception to his recent performance for Olympique de Marseille.

The Italian head coach responded firmly after Bennacer, who played a key role in Marseille’s 3–2 victory over Toulouse on the final day of the Ligue 1 season, was heavily scrutinised by some French outlets.

Despite providing an assist in the win, the 26-year-old received a low rating of just 4 out of 10 from L’Équipe, which named him among the match’s worst performers.

De Zerbi, however, remains unwavering in his faith in the AC Milan loanee. Speaking to L’Équipe, he offered a clear message of support: “Bennacer, along with Rabiot, Greenwood, and the others, are very high-level players; they embody the soul of the team.”

His comments underline a broader commitment to protect his player from what he sees as unjust evaluations, particularly as Bennacer continues to rebuild form and fitness after a prolonged injury layoff.

Just a week prior, De Zerbi had already acknowledged the need for caution when managing Bennacer’s workload, citing the importance of safeguarding the player’s physical condition. “I don’t want to lose him again due to injury,” the coach said, emphasising the long-term view Marseille is taking with the Algerian international.

Bennacer, currently on loan from AC Milan, joined Marseille with a €15 million purchase option included in the deal. While the player has shown flashes of his known quality, the club’s hierarchy is not rushing into a permanent transfer.

The board is said to be monitoring his ability to maintain fitness and deliver consistent performances across a run of games before triggering the clause.

Marseille’s decision to delay any definitive move reflects both the uncertainty surrounding the midfielder’s form and a desire to make a well-measured investment.

Bennacer, though widely regarded as one of Algeria’s most technically gifted players, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, and his path back to top-level rhythm remains a work in progress.

Nonetheless, De Zerbi appears determined to shield his player from external pressure. His praise not only reaffirmed Bennacer’s importance to the current squad but also sent a clear signal that the Italian coach views media criticism as premature and overly severe.

The situation now places both the player and the club in a delicate balancing act: Bennacer must prove he can stay fit and perform consistently, while Marseille must decide whether he fits into their long-term plans beyond this season.

As Ligue 1 enters the off-season, all eyes will be on Marseille’s next move. For now, though, Bennacer can count on his manager’s vocal backing — a gesture that may prove crucial in his ongoing journey back to form.