On Wednesday, Genesio publicly backed Igor Paixao before Marseille’s Europa tie with Olympiacos. He brushed aside any fallout from the player’s outburst against Troyes. Can the Brazilian rebound?
Marseille’s 2-0 win over Troyes lifted spirits, yet questions linger. The team now eyes a strong European start at the Vélodrome against Olympiacos. Genesio addressed the media, noting Paixao’s lingering frustration after his substitution.
There’s no issue, Genesio insisted, adding that every incident has an explanation. He reminded everyone that Paixao once had a move to Sunderland that fell through, a factor that may still sting.
Watch the pre‑match OM press conference ahead of the Olympiacos showdown.
Genesio applauds Paixao’s involvement.
The Brazilian, who set up the opener on Ligue 1’s opening day, has struggled to find rhythm since. Despite his goal drought, Genesio praised his constant commitment to the collective. In my view, Genesio’s unwavering faith could spark Paixao’s revival.
‘We’ve talked a lot about his offensive output, and truth be told it isn’t what it was in preseason or against Strasbourg,’ the coach said. ‘What stands out is his work rate – you’ll see him tracking back to the corner flag and covering for left‑back Emerson Palmieri.’
He admitted the striker is in a brief period of doubt, a phase many forwards experience.
We must show him our confidence.
Rather than scold Paixao, Genesio aims to lift him, offering support instead of criticism after the Troyes incident.
It’s our job to back him, to restore his confidence and help him regain his attacking feel, Genesio added. ‘He knows he can count on us,’ the former Rennes, Lille and Lyon boss said, recalling his promise right after the Troyes match.
“Je pense qu’il ne faut pas grand-chose, parfois il suffit d’un déclic ou d’un but parce qu’on sait que les attaquants marchent beaucoup à la confiance et je pense que c’est ce qui lui manque un petit peu en ce moment.”
Paixao offered an apology to the locker room and to Genesio. Will he rediscover his scoring touch in the upcoming Europa clash?
Himad Abdelli also voiced support, recalling his own rocky start after joining in January. He noted Paixao’s smile has returned and he bears no grudges over the Troyes frustration.
The Algerian praised Paixao as a cheerful, quality player who can change games, adding the Brazilian may have been a bit upset by the Troyes result.
After the Aube victory, Paixao immediately apologized to the coach and teammates, Genesio said, and the matter is now closed.