Genesio promises decisive Europa League match before Istanbul Classic

Bruno Genesio made it clear that Olympique de Marseille will approach the Europa League in Istanbul against Besiktas with the same intensity as Ligue 1 matches, aiming to get out of the group stage to regain confidence before the Sunday Classic.

Kick‑off is set for 9 p.m. this Thursday in Istanbul, marking Olympique de Marseille’s official entry into the Europa League against Besiktas. Genesio said that supporters who doubted the club’s European ambition see their concerns dispelled.

Clear objective: play at full throttle

‘We’re going to give it our all!’, Genesio declared at the press conference. He reminded that he has always adopted the same intensity in every European Cup he has been involved in. ‘I have a squad at my disposal that works well, is committed, and has quality,’ he added.

Regardless of the opponent, it is not about ‘letting this match go’ simply because the Classic is played on Sunday. Genesio believes the Europa League can provide a boost of confidence after a start to the season below expectations.

The coach wants Olympique de Marseille to get out of the first stage to aim for a round of 16 or quarter‑finals in the spring. He sees this progression as essential to restore morale before the Classic and to honour the work of his predecessor.

In summary, Genesio stresses maximum motivation and refuses to ‘waste’ the competition, in order to meet supporters’ expectations and prepare the team for the Classic challenge.