Marseille are third in Ligue 1 after a five-match unbeaten run and sit only two points behind leaders Lens. De Zerbi's side have lost just three league matches all season, with only Paris Saint-Germain and Rennes suffering fewer defeats. A win over Lille on Friday can even lift Marseille to the top temporarily, as both Lens and PSG are not in action until Saturday.

Despite criticism from some supporters, De Zerbi underlines his commitment to the project.

"I still see myself here long-term," he said. "I want to go beyond three years and be one of the most important coaches in Marseille's history. I feel good even with the criticism. A lot of it is in bad faith, but it does not offend me. It is a privilege to work here."

Marseille fight on several fronts, and their season carries significant pressure. They sit on six points in the Champions League standings and remain inside the play-off spots with three games left. Opta's latest model gives them a 5.6 per cent chance of winning Ligue 1, but De Zerbi insists ambition remains high.

"I want us to arrive in May fighting in every competition," he said. "I want us to continue our Champions League journey because I try to push this team as far as possible. Why should we not have that ambition?"

De Zerbi highlights January as a decisive month, with league games against PSG and Lens, the Trophee des Champions in Kuwait, two crucial Champions League fixtures and a potential Coupe de France tie.

"To succeed, we cannot suddenly turn on the lights in January," he said. "We must think ahead and manage the squad without creating too much damage. In Metz, Vaz starts and we win three-nil. Gouiri and Aubameyang are on the bench. Against Auxerre, I do not play Paixao and Greenwood together. Greenwood is not at his usual level against Toulouse; maybe he needs a rest."

He also defends his decision to use young forward Darryl Bakola, who scores the winner against Lyon last month.

"Someone criticises me and says I only play him for a moment of brilliance," De Zerbi said. "People who say that are acting in bad faith or should find another job. I take a calculated risk because he is talented. I give many young players their chance. I know how to manage them, push them, or give them space. But I can make mistakes; I am not infallible."

With Marseille pushing for trophies in France and Europe, De Zerbi urges his squad to maintain momentum as they enter the decisive winter period.

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