Francesco Farioli reveals decision to make Marcin Bulka No.1 was taken ‘at the last minute’ | OneFootball

Marcin Bulka (24) is OGC Nice’s uncontested No.1, but whilst there are no doubts as to the Poland international’s place in the starting lineup now, Francesco Farioli has revealed that the decision to choose Bulka over Kasper Schmeichel was not an easy one to make.

Bulka spent last season at Nice as the No.2, behind Schmeichel, who had arrived from Leicester City in the summer. The former’s agent expressed frustration at this decision, however, this summer, the decision went in his favour. Bulka was chosen over Schmeichel with the latter ultimately leaving on a free transfer.

That choice has certainly been justified. Bulka won the September Player of the Month award and has conceded just four goals in 12 Ligue 1 games. However, speaking in a press conference, attended by Get French Football News, Farioli revealed that the decision to promote Bulka was a difficult one to make.

From ‘luxury substitute’ to ‘one of the most watched goalkeepers’

“I said before the first match of the season, against Lille OSC, that I hadn’t decided. I took a long time, right up until the last minute to decide my No.1 because it isn’t a choice to make lightly. We had the talent of Marcin, but also the experience and quality of Kasper. With the staff, we reflected on what we would gain and lose with each option. We chose Marcin for his enthusiasm, his willingness to learn and his potential. He showed great things and I hope that will continue,” said the Italian manager.

Farioli went on to praise Bulka, adding,  “In the space of four months, he went from a luxury substitute to one of the most watched goalkeepers in international football. He knows the level that he has to stay at. He is a serious, hard-working boy who has his head well screwed on. He knows he has to continue to work with his hunger, for himself and for the team”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle