Transfer news: Bruno Genesio appointed OM coach, Beye dismissed
OM have made their call. Bruno Genesio will be in the Marseille dugout next season, replacing Habib Beye, whose chaotic finish to the campaign was not enough to convince the club’s hierarchy to keep the faith. New president Stephane Richard made him his top target, and internal talks quickly settled on the 59-year-old. He is set to sign a two-year deal with an option for a third.
Genesio had been in pole position for several days, despite interest from other clubs including Paris FC and Monaco. Marseille have won the race for a coach who will take charge of a fourth Ligue 1 side after Lyon, Stade Rennais and LOSC. He leaves Lille after a strong season, having guided them straight into the Champions League off the back of a blistering end to the campaign. “I have more than met the targets set for me,” he said before meeting president Olivier Letang to confirm his departure.
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The Champions League will have to wait, Europa League progress is the immediate target
Genesio arrives at OM without Champions League football. The Marseille club missed out on qualification for the next league phase, unlike LOSC, the side he has just left. It is a frustrating situation for a coach who has just come off a direct Champions League qualification, but it should not dent his ambition on the Canebiere. The short-term aim will be to go on a serious run in the Europa League while putting OM back on course for Champions League qualification next season.
There is plenty to sort out. Beye leaves behind a team in need of a rebuild, a disappointing season and a dressing room that showed signs of strain towards the end of the campaign. Genesio arrives with a respected methods, solid Ligue 1 experience and a reputation as a coach who can make a group better over time. Marseille have made their choice; now they have to back it.
Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP
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