Chancel Mbemba has made a surprising decision to remain at Olympique de Marseille for the rest of the season, despite ongoing speculation regarding his future.
The Congolese international, who had been expected to leave the club following a turbulent relationship with the management, will now see out the season in the French Mediterranean city.
Mbemba’s situation at Marseille has been fraught with tension since the summer transfer window, with the 30-year-old centre-back relegated to the bench and facing increasing pressure to depart.
Initially, Mbemba appeared open to a move, and Marseille’s management had been actively seeking to offload him during the summer.
However, the defender has now decided to remain at the club for the duration of the current campaign.
The defender’s decision to stay until the end of the season represents a significant shift in his stance.
His contract with the Ligue 1 club is set to expire in June 2025, which means he could leave on a free transfer at the end of his deal.
Marseille’s management, having hoped to sell him earlier in order to recoup some of the transfer fee they paid for him, will be disappointed by his decision to stay, as it eliminates the possibility of a sale in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Despite the strained relationship between Mbemba and the club, his decision to stay reflects his determination to see out his contract.
His situation has sparked mixed reactions from the Marseille supporters and management, with some hoping for a change in the defender’s attitude, while others acknowledge that his presence could bring much-needed stability to the squad, even if he leaves at the end of the season.
Stade Rennais, seeking defensive reinforcements, has reportedly shown interest in signing Mbemba.
However, the player has so far not expressed a desire to move to the Breton club, and despite earlier links with clubs like Montpellier and Al-Shabab, no transfer has materialized.
As the winter transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Mbemba maintains his position at Marseille or ultimately decides to leave for a new challenge.
For now, he remains a Marseille player, navigating the complexities of his future at the club.
