While Olympique de Marseille was counting on certain departures to reduce its squad and finance new reinforcements, the situation took an unexpected turn for one of its loaned players. Considered undesirable by the club, his final transfer seemed confirmed. However, the latest revelations shake things up: the announced operation will ultimately not take place.
According to recent information from La Provence, the purchase option initially mentioned for the loan of Azzedine Ounahi to Panathinaikos was only an illusion. Priced at 11.5 million euros, this option seemed to appeal to the Greek leaders, who had been impressed by the performances of the Moroccan international. However, a person familiar with the matter categorically denied this possibility, calling the idea “pure invention”.
Back to square one for this flop
In reality, Panathinaikos has neither the means nor the intention to pay such a sum. The club would instead like to negotiate a new loan with a reduced purchase option and a percentage on resale. A proposal which does not satisfy OM, which was counting on a final sale to reinvest in the market.
In the absence of an agreement, Ounahi’s return to Marseille at the end of the season is now inevitable. Placarded since the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi, the midfielder will have to try to relaunch himself under other skies or find his place in a squad where he has never managed to establish himself.
A missed opportunity for OM?
This turnaround highlights the limits of Marseille management in this matter. If the Moroccan does not find a buyer next summer, his return could become a thorn in the side of Marseille management.
While OM aimed to finance its transfer window with this sale, this failure complicates the club’s plans. With glaring needs in defense and attack, the Phocéens will have to find other solutions to strengthen their squad and meet the expectations of their coach.
