Paixao’s refusal to shake Genesio’s hand sparks severe rebuke at Marseille
Igor Paixão (26) walked off the pitch in the 87th minute of Olympique de Marseille’s 2‑0 win at Troyes after refusing to shake Bruno Genesio’s hand, a gesture that has plunged the Brazilian winger into a storm of criticism. The incident, captured on television, has already prompted talk of an urgent meeting with his agent.
Match result and the handshake incident
Marseille ended a run of five consecutive defeats in all competitions with the victory at Troyes, securing three points that momentarily eased pressure on the squad. Yet the celebration was short‑lived; Paixão’s abrupt exit dominated headlines, eclipsing the win itself.
According to the match footage, Genesio approached Paixão as the latter prepared to leave, extending his hand. The winger turned away, prompting the coach to grab his arm in an attempt to enforce the handshake, an effort that failed and was widely replayed on social media.
Media backlash and financial context
analyst Kevin Diaz condemned the behaviour, calling it “inadmissible” and urging Paixão to prioritise the collective over personal frustration. Diaz reminded viewers that Marseille had rejected a €35 million offer for the Brazilian this summer, insisting the club kept him as a leader to help meet minimal objectives.
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Diaz even imagined the sporting director’s response: “If I were the director, I would summon him tomorrow with his agent and say ‘You’re out of control, we’re in a nameless crisis.’” The comment underlined the severity with which the club’s hierarchy may view the episode.
Walid Acherchour added that Paixão’s on‑field impact has been limited since the season began, noting a lack of the athletic superiority and technical quality displayed in his previous Champions League performances. “Une analyse montre que son influence reste insuffisante,” he wrote, highlighting the gap between expectation and reality.
Despite the uproar, Genesio chose a measured tone when questioned after the match. He described the incident as “nothing, it can happen,” and expressed understanding of Paixão’s frustration, insisting the player still enjoys the coach’s confidence and the group’s support.
Malgré the coach’s reassurance, the consensus among commentators is that Paixão must quickly rediscover form and discipline if he is to justify the club’s investment and avoid further disciplinary action.