Roberto De Zerbi has claimed that the French Ligue 1 is stronger than the opposing statements made against it, but has not been sold well as a product.
Speaking on his view of French football, De Zerbi shared an opinion in contrast to one which global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo stated while speaking about the Saudi Arabian league.
“I think Ligue 1 is a stronger league than people think abroad,” De Zerbi said.
“It is probably badly sold by those in charge,” continued De Zerbi, who had spent the previous two years as coach of Brighton and Hove in the Premier League.
The former coach of Sassuolo in Serie A and Ukrainian heavyweights Shakhtar Donetsk has led Marseille to second place in Ligue 1 after 15 games, although they are 10 points behind runaway leaders Paris Saint-Germain, the defending champions.
“Outside of France, Ligue 1 is considered a low-level championship, but it’s not the case at all,” he added.
“There are really good players and coaches, full stadiums and great supporters.”
Ligue 1 has been viewed as a lower level of Europe’s top leagues England, Spain, Germany and Italy, while its clubs also underperform in continental competitions.
The French top-flight has also been undermined by a broadcasting deal which sees it earn far less than its rivals.
“I think Ligue 1 is not sold as well [as a product] and does not have the same light shone on it as the Premier League, which is the best league in Europe, or Serie A, La Liga and the Bundesliga,” the 45-year-old said.
“I don’t know if it has been badly managed, or just badly sold abroad. In Italy in any case, nobody can see Marseille’s games and that is a shame.
“Players move on from Ligue 1 to play in England, Germany and everywhere.
“France is a country that loves football. It is a shame that it is not appreciated abroad for what it has to offer.”
