Steve Mandanda, an iconic goaltender and recordman of appearances at the Olympique de Marseille, is at a crossroads of his career. After the end of his contract with Rennes, where his departure was expected, the 40-year-old hesitated between a last season on the field or a professional conversion. He refused an offer from Turkey, favouring family and professional stability, especially for his son’s education in Rennes. This decision, which he mentioned in an interview with the Parisien, leaves him undecided about his future, although he still claims to take a lot of fun to play. Behind-the-scenes discussions evoke opportunities to become a media consultant or to hold an administrative role, especially in Marseille, but Mandanda does not yet project itself completely off the ground.

The news of the Olympique de Marseille is currently marked by rumours of mercato about several players, such as Cornelius, Bennacer, Ouahab, and Simon, as well as possible arrivals like Mantuan, Weah, Paixão, and even a more distant rumor involving Neymar. At the same time, the professional team continues its summer preparation with internships in the Netherlands, Andorra and Catalonia, before returning to the field on 30 July. Coach Roberto De Zerbi made a decision about the younger generation, keeping only four of the five young players initially integrated into the training centre.

Among the young people who will continue their preparation with the professional group are Robinio Vaz, Keyliane Abdallah and Darryl Bakolao, who proved their worth in friendly games. A notable surprise is the arrival of Yanis Sellami, midfielder, in reinforcement following the departure of Valentin Rongier. De Zerbi insists on the need for young people to confirm their potential against higher-level opponents before the start of the season. These final games will serve as the final stage of preparation before final arbitrations and team composition for the new season.