Genesio disagrees with stripping Höjbjerg of captaincy

Marseille's board made a striking call in the match against Atlético Madrid: they stripped Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg of the captaincy to hand it to Timothy Weah. The Dane had worn the armband throughout pre-season, but the club's hierarchy decided on the change following recent transfer market developments.

The move came as punishment. On Monday, Höjbjerg rejected Newcastle's offer, which included a three-year contract. The English side and Marseille had agreed the deal's terms: €8 million plus €2 million in add-ons, according to L'Équipe. The midfielder's refusal was a blow to Frank McCourt and the board.

Genesio distances himself

After the match, Bruno Genesio was blunt about the situation. "It's a decision that was dictated to me by the club's management. To be completely honest, it's not a decision I share. But I'm an employee and have to accept certain obligations," the manager said, as reported by the French outlet.

Despite the punishment, Höjbjerg delivered a solid, intense performance on the pitch, showing professionalism. Internal tensions, however, are now bubbling under the surface at the southern French club.