Chris Waddle says Marseille must stabilise to challenge PSG

Retired England international Chris Waddle told Get French Football News that Olympique de Marseille cannot compete with Paris Saint-Germain unless the club finds stability, citing constant player turnover and frequent managerial changes. He added that the club’s current approach of buying five players and selling five each window hinders any chance of building a settled side.

Waddle said, “If Marseille want to challenge PSG, then they have to get their house in order,” emphasizing the need for a clear long‑term plan. The quote was given during an exclusive interview focused on Marseille’s rebuild and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He recalled the era under Bernard Tapie, when Marseille won the league three years in a row and reached both the Champions League semi‑final and final, noting that the club also won the Champions League in 1993 before suffering relegation. Tapie’s tenure, Waddle explained, combined a strong vision with consistent player recruitment.

According to Waddle, recent seasons have seen a “very disrupted dressing room” with players leaving after fights and managers being sacked, creating an environment where no one knows who will be on the squad next week. He highlighted that the constant chopping and changing prevents the team from ever settling.

Waddle welcomed Roberto De Zerbi’s move to Tottenham, saying he liked the coach and believed he did a good job at Marseille despite the demanding environment. He suggested that Tottenham’s more laid‑back atmosphere should give De Zerbi the time to build a team without the constant turnover he experienced in France.

Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Waddle predicted that Spain or France are likely to win, arguing that Spain’s possession style suits the expected hot conditions and that France’s depth of top players will make them strong contenders. He stressed that both nations will feel disappointment if they fail to reach the final.

Discussing England’s squad, Waddle noted that Didier Deschamps is making space for creative talent like Rayan Cherki, while England have an abundance of number‑10s such as Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze, Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers and Phil Foden. He warned that England’s biggest issue may be defending, questioning whether the back four can cope with the tournament’s challenges.