Marseille boss Roberto de Zerbi has vowed to stand up to his critics ahead of his side’s trip to Angers in Ligue 1 on Saturday.
The former Brighton manager has come under fire over his side’s inconsistent performances.
A 9-0 cup win at minnows Bayeux aside, it has been a frustrating fortnight for Les Olympiens, who have won only one of their last four in Ligue 1.
They lost 2-0 at Nantes to fall eight points behind leaders Lens in their last league outing and also lost the French Super Cup to Paris St Germain on penalties after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser.
De Zerbi told reporters at a press conference: “Criticism will never change my mind about my work and my desire to stay at this club.
“Some criticism is intended to hurt the club. People criticise an Italian coach but that won’t make me run away, on the contrary.”
Marseille, who host Liverpool in the Champions League next Wednesday, are third going into this weekend’s clash against an Angers side who sit 10th after four wins from their last six.
De Zerbi has been impressed by the work of his opposite number Alexandre Dujeux.
He said: “They are a well-organised team that plays well. You can see the coach’s influence. They were one of the best teams in terms of play.
“No Ligue 1 match is easy. Angers are a mid-table team and one of the best at playing football. I have a lot of respect for the Angers coach.”
