Overview
- Canada coach Jesse Marsch used harsh language to criticize former Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi for how he handled midfielder Ismaël Koné, according to interviews reported by CBS Sports and GOLZ.
- Marseille previously released training footage showing a clash between De Zerbi and Koné, including the coach shouting “Call your agent” and ordering the player to the locker room.
- Koné left Marseille after the incident, spent a short loan at Stade Rennais, and was then sold to Sassuolo for €10 million.
- At Sassuolo, Koné delivered a strong season with six goals in 32 Serie A matches, which Marsch attributes to the player finding a better setting and taking on a key role with a newly promoted side.
- Marsch says Koné is central to Canada’s World Cup plans, and coverage notes De Zerbi is no longer Marseille’s coach, underscoring how club disputes can shape national-team choices.