Marseille: Samir Nasri, legend of OM, does not understand the sidelining of Chancel Mbemba
Olympique de Marseille recently started their season with a trip to Greece for the third preliminary round of the Champions League. Unfortunately, the Marseille club was defeated 1-0 by Panathinaikos, and this meeting raised questions about the tenure of Chancel Mbemba.
Indeed, the Congolese defender, who had been a real pillar of the team during the previous season, was relegated to the bench in favor of Balerdi and Gigot. He only came on in the 86th minute, replacing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
This decision aroused misunderstanding not only among supporters, but also among former OM players, like Samir Nasri. The French midfielder, who worked for clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester City and Anderlecht, wondered about coach Marcelino’s tactical choices.
“Can someone explain to me why Mbemba hasn’t played since last season?” he said on his official Twitter account.
Since his arrival in Marseille, Marcelino has used the captain of the Congolese national team very little, offering him little playing time, especially during the pre-season. This situation raises many questions about Mbemba’s future, especially as he is attracting interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Mbemba’s absence from this crucial match in Greece was noticed, especially since the OM defense showed certain shortcomings. Faced with this situation, the questions about the choices of the coach and the future of the player should not take long to multiply.
It is certain that the sidelining of Chancel Mbemba continues to fuel discussions in the French football landscape. The Congolese defender’s performances and his importance in the OM team cannot be ignored, and many supporters are waiting for clarification on this situation.
In the meantime, it remains to be seen whether Mbemba will regain his place in the starting XI in the next few matches, or if his sideline will become a recurring trend under Marcelino’s stewardship. The Congolese defender’s future at OM looks uncertain, and it is possible that future transfers to foreign clubs are on the horizon.
To be continued..