The French giants are looking to secure back-to-back Coupe de la Ligue trophies after the club defeated Bordeaux 3-1 in last year’s final to win their first piece of silverware in 17 years.
The cup final success was followed by a first Ligue 1 championship since 1992 with Deschamps’ men looking to complete another double this season.
The Marseille coach is particularly looking forward to another appearance at Stade de France.
“It’s always been a place I like although I am there less often than when I was playing,” the coach told the club’s official website. “To return two years in a row is a huge pleasure for me, the staff, players and our fans.”
With the club’s recent success it comes as no surprise that Marseille are regarded as heavy favourites, a label Deschamps has no problem with.
“You the media think we’re the favorites but I have no problem with this. We will see what happens at the stadium but like I said, I have no problem being labeled favorites.”
The context for this year’s final is different as the supporters are less desperate for success due to the club’s domestic double last season, but Deschamps maintains that a decline in enthusiasm is not a problem.
“This is not a danger Marseille’s recent trophy haul, it’s reality. There is certainly less buzz about the game and there will not be the same celebrations if we win. We have an important game on Wednesday against Nice so we can’t waste out energy,” the coach said referring to the possibility of fatigue if over exuberant celebrations take place.
The two sides met last weekend in Ligue 1 with Marseille coming from a goal down to defeat Montpellier 2-1 to reduce leaders Lille’s lead to one point.
Originally posted here:
Didier Deschamps: We Have No Problem Being Labelled Favourites