Volleyball: The departure of Lorenzo Tubertini is “a semi-personal failure” for Loïc Le Marrec, the new coach of Montpellier

Le Marrec is now head of MHSC VB Midi Libre – Michael Esdourrubailh

Before the double reception in Nice, this Saturday January 20 (7:30 p.m.) in the championship and Tuesday (8 p.m.) in the Coupe de France, the new MHSC VB coach Loïc Le Marrec speaks.

How do you feel about your appointment as head coach in place of Lorenzo Tubertini ?

It’s not something I came looking for or that I had visions about when I returned to Montpellier this summer. The fact that Lorenzo is sidelined is a personal semi-failure. I was an integral part of the staff when he was there so I also fished. I was asked to take on the challenge, I have already done it in Montpellier but also with the France A team. This wasn't planned, so I have to get into the rhythm and get into the swing of things very quickly because it's a big load. We discussed it with the players, they support the project, they will also take matters into their own hands to help me. Knowing that we are one, the group and I, makes my task easier mentally.

Players must take responsibility ?

This is the basis. We felt less energy on the pitch even though everything was going well at the start. The players have not lost their game, their technique…hellip; He has things to calibrate, systems, passer-attacker, block-defense relationships. It’s brand new, we couldn’t cover all the sectors. In any case, I see the support of the group.

You can count on a group with many leaders…

This group is very healthy, hardworking, they do not pull down. When everyone buys in, the players take charge of the project, everyone contributes to the project. In this squad, there are executives but each player must find their way. It’s not a democracy where everyone votes, but my plan is adaptable and debatable. When everyone agrees, we go and we don't go back.

Success in Saint-Nazaire (2-3) validates the first step of your method…

It already validates that the players and the collective are good. Saint-Nazaire was undefeated at home. It was really a big match in terms of intensity and technique. What I liked was that my players managed to play strong technically, tactically, collectively and above all for a long time. That’s what we’ve been losing lately.

How are the next two matches against Nice, in the league on Saturday and in the Coupe de France on Tuesday, decisive ?

They are very important but so are the following ones. Everyone wants to win, that's for sure, but what do we do to get there ? It's this process that interests me. I'm focused on that.
 

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