Canadian Defender Derek Cornelius Reflects on First Season with Marseille

As the Ligue 1 season approaches its final stretch with eight matches remaining, Canadian international defender Derek Cornelius is nearing the completion of his inaugural campaign in French football with Olympique de Marseille. The 27-year-old center-back, who joined the club last summer from Swedish side Malmö FF, has made 19 appearances for Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.

Cornelius expressed his satisfaction with his first year at the club, stating, “It’s been an exciting and challenging experience. The league is incredibly competitive, with no easy matches. Every game demands maximum effort to secure three points. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the culture here, facing new challenges in training daily and during weekend fixtures. I hope this positive experience continues in the years to come.”

Addressing the demanding schedule of a top-tier footballer, Cornelius emphasized the importance of proper recovery and preparation. “We have numerous trips and matches, but that’s part of the job. Quick recovery is crucial. Fortunately, we have excellent staff and coaches, both at Marseille and with the Canadian national team, who help manage these demands effectively.”

Looking ahead to the final stretch of the season, Cornelius maintains a focused approach. “We must always be prepared to play. Wearing this shirt is an honor, and we don’t feel any additional pressure. While we have important matches against Monaco and Lille on the horizon, our immediate focus is on Reims. We’re treating each of these eight remaining games as finals, taking them one at a time.”

As Marseille continues its pursuit of a strong finish in Ligue 1, Cornelius’s adaptability and positive attitude will undoubtedly be valuable assets to the team’s ambitions.