Featured image of post OM enters international truce and McCourt criticizes LFP

OM enters international truce and McCourt criticizes LFP

The international truce of September 2025 is an active period for the Olympique de Marseille, with many players called to represent their national selection. Some will be involved in the World Cup playoffs 2026, while others will be involved in friendly or qualifying matches for the Euro Hopes. This FIFA window was also marked by a historic event in Buenos Aires, where Lionel Messi played his last match in Argentine colours, a moment full of emotion for the club and its internationals. Despite the absence of some players such as Leonardo Balerdi and Geronimo Rulli, others such as Amir Murillo confirmed their importance in their respective selections, while young talent Darryl Bakolae and Keyliane Abdallah shone with the French U20. This international participation offers valuable visibility and experience for OM players, who could play a key role in the end of the season in Ligue 1.

In parallel with this sporting activity, the owner of Olympique de Marseille, Franck McCourt, expressed deep concern about the current state of French football. In an interview, he severely criticized the management of the Football Professional League (LFP), finding it financially irrational, opaque and ineffective. McCourt calls for a profound reform of the LFP, highlighting the massive loss of income from hexagonal football and the lack of strategic vision that prevents Ligue 1 from attracting and retaining the best talent. He also deplores the delay in League 1 compared to other European championships, notably the Premier League, and stresses the need for the LFP to transform and adopt stronger and credible governance to compete with other major championships.

Finally, Olympique de Marseille announced the loan of its midfielder, Ismaël Bennacer, to the Dinamo Zagreb with option of purchase. Arriving in Marseille at the beginning of the season, Bennacer did not succeed in imposing himself on a lasting basis and OM chose not to raise its purchase option with AC Milan. This new opportunity in Zagreb represents a chance for the player to return to playing time, confidence and re-launch his career after difficult months. The Dinamo Zagreb, which will play the Europa League, hopes that Bennacer will be able to demonstrate its level and convince the club to play the shopping option. For OM, this divestment marks the end of a chapter without real sporting impact.