Marseille clinched a 2-0 win at Troyes on Sunday, but the celebration was marred when Brazilian winger Igor Paixao snapped at coach Bruno Genesio as he was being subbed off. The midfielder tried to grab Paixao’s arm, yet the forward walked away, later defending his actions to the media.
The frustration was evident for all to see. Paixao bristled at being pulled in the 87th minute for Faris Moumbagna, returning to the bench with a dark stare. After slapping his replacement’s hand, the 1.68‑metre right‑winger deliberately ignored Genesio’s attempt to engage.
Genesio’s reaction was palpable. The 60‑year‑old coach reached for Paixao’s arm, but the player kept moving, offering no glance. Eventually the manager released him, visibly annoyed.
After the match, Genesio downplayed the episode on Ligue 1+: “He was disappointed to leave, perhaps also with his performance. It’s understandable when frustration runs high. Like the squad, Igor must rebuild his confidence and can count on my support.”
Paixao’s disappointing start
Despite the win, Paixao delivered a lackluster display. He hasn’t scored since the season began and hasn’t produced a decisive action in five games. His last assist came on August 21, when he set up Amine Gouiri in a 4-0 victory over Strasbourg. In my view, Paixao’s start has been underwhelming.
The second league triumph lifts Marseille to 13th, giving the side a breather near the bottom. Genesio’s squad will look to repeat the performance against Angers on Sunday at 15:00, before hosting Olympiacos on Thursday at 21:00 in the Europa League.