Stephane Mbia: Marseille Coach Didier Deschamps Has An Embarrassment Of Riches

Olympique de Marseille are now reckoned to have the strongest squad in Ligue 1, after spending profusely over the summer transfer window, and defensive midfielder Stephane Mbia – himself a new recruit having joined from Stade Rennais – has indicated that he is part of the most formidable force in France.

Mbia missed the 2-0 victory over Grenoble last weekend because of suspension and is not convinced he will start Sunday’s encounter against Lille.

“I am very impatient, but I don’t know if I’ll play,” he told Football365.

“When I signed with Olympique de Marseille, I knew very well what to expect. Anyone who played in my position last Saturday against Grenoble [Edouard Cisse] was very strong.

“The club coach [Didier Deschamps] is now spoiled for choice. Here there is competition, but I love it.

“It’s like playing at international level, there are two players for each position. Everyone must produce to earn his place, and we know it will not be easy this year. But competition is strong and healthy.”

Asked what has impressed him most about OM since making the move south from Brittany, Mbia was not hesitant with his answer.

“The supporters,” he exclaimed.

“When we see them in front of la Commanderie, it’s magnificent. It’s heart warming. With this, you are obliged to wet the jersey.”

Although the Cameroon midfield anchor could feature on Sunday in Marseille’s ‘home’ match, he will have to wait another fortnight to play at the Stade Velodrome as OM host Lille at the Stade de la Mosson in Montpellier. This is due to a delay in the pitch being re-laid at the Velodrome, because of an investigation into the deaths of two workers prior to a Madonna concert in the summer.

Robin Bairner, Goal.com