Olympique de Marseille’s director of football, Mehdi Benatia, has openly expressed his admiration for Algerian internationals Ramy Bensebaini and Rayan Aït-Nouri, hinting at his desire to see them don the Marseille colors in the future.
The rise of Algerian defenders in European football has not gone unnoticed, with Bensebaini and Aït-Nouri becoming standout figures in their respective leagues.
Bensebaini, currently at Borussia Dortmund, and Aït-Nouri, a key figure at Wolverhampton Wanderers, have not only cemented their defensive reputations but have also drawn attention for their ability to contribute offensively — a trait highly valued in modern football.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Benatia didn’t shy away from his admiration for the duo. “Every club in Europe would dream of having a Bensebaini or an Aït-Nouri,” he said, underlining the growing market appeal of Algerian talent.
While no formal moves have been made, Benatia acknowledged that Ligue 1’s environment could offer a favorable setting for attracting players of their caliber.
Bensebaini, 28, has been a consistent performer in the Bundesliga, earning praise for his defensive stability and attacking prowess from the left flank.
His time at Borussia Mönchengladbach before moving to Dortmund showcased his adaptability, making him a valuable asset for any top-tier side.
Meanwhile, Aït-Nouri, at just 22, has become a mainstay at Wolves, impressing with his dribbling ability, pace, and tactical intelligence.
His performances in the Premier League have drawn attention from several European clubs, and his potential continues to rise as he gains experience in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
For Benatia, the appeal of these players goes beyond their on-pitch abilities. Their profiles align with Marseille’s long-term vision of building a squad that combines youthful energy with seasoned experience.
“They are the kind of players who can elevate a team. Their versatility, defensive solidity, and willingness to push forward make them invaluable in today’s game,” Benatia added.
Marseille, known for its passionate fan base and storied history, has been actively seeking reinforcements to strengthen its squad.
While the club has not initiated any concrete negotiations for Bensebaini or Aït-Nouri, Benatia’s public admiration could be a subtle indication of potential future pursuits.
The director also hinted that Ligue 1’s appeal could play a pivotal role in attracting top talents.
“France has always been a welcoming ground for North African players.
The culture, the language, and the competitive nature of Ligue 1 make it an ideal platform,” Benatia explained.
As Marseille continues to strategize for upcoming transfer windows, the names of Bensebaini and Aït-Nouri remain on Benatia’s radar.
Whether these ambitions materialize into formal offers remains to be seen, but the message is clear — Marseille is keeping a close eye on two of Algeria’s brightest defensive talents.
