The Olympique de Marseille is currently confronted with an internal controversy following an altercation between Jonathan Rowe and Adrien Rabiot, which provoked the indignation of Eric Di Meco, former OM player. Di Meco criticises the management of the situation by the club, calling it “incoherent” and stressing a lack of communication with the players. He believes that the fight was amplified and that the club instrumentalized the incident to get rid of Rabiot, whose departure was already envisaged. This has weakened confidence between the management, coach Roberto De Zerbi and the players, creating confusion within the team as the season begins.

At the same time, OM is stepping up its efforts to strengthen its field environment. Advanced negotiations are under way with Real Madrid for the arrival of Dani Ceballos, a loan with option of purchase being the preferred formula. The Spaniard would be enthusiastic about joining OM, and a verbal agreement seems to exist. OM also continues its search for an winger with a strong interest for Edoan Zhegrova, from LOSC Lille. Discussions are on track, the player wishing to join the Marseille club. There is competition, but it seems to be fading, as Juventus Turin is not making progress.

Finally, OM explores other avenues to fill its field environment. The club contacted Benfica Lisbon for a loan from Florentino Luis, a solid defensive environment. Negotiations are open, but no agreement has yet been reached. Dani Ceballos, already targeted by Pablo Longoria and Mehdï Benatia, remains an option, but Real Madrid claims a compensation of 15 million euros, considered too high by OM. Roberto De Zerbi wants to strengthen his midfielder with a player capable of breaking the lines and protecting the defense. OM, ambitious for this season, seeks to recruit quality players to meet the coach’s expectations.