Chancel Mbemba has been officially dropped from Olympique de Marseille’s first team with just two months remaining on his contract, in a move that highlights growing internal rifts and deepens questions about the club’s management strategy.
As the squad departed for a vital training camp in Rome, the Congolese international was left behind in Marseille and instructed to train with the reserves—an unequivocal signal that his chapter at the club is nearing its end.
The defender, once central to OM’s ambitions, has now found himself sidelined without public explanation.
This turn of events caps months of mounting tension.
Mbemba’s minutes had already been significantly reduced, and his absence from matchday squads had become more frequent.
The latest development—a formal demotion—comes without any clear communication from club leadership.
Since arriving from FC Porto in 2022, Mbemba quickly became a fan favourite.
His commanding performances, unwavering commitment, and leadership earned him plaudits at the Vélodrome.
But the atmosphere gradually soured. Disagreements over tactical roles, uncertainty around his future, and a breakdown in contract talks have culminated in his exclusion.
His current deal is set to expire in June 2025, yet no extension has been proposed, nor has the club engaged in meaningful negotiations.
“Sources close to the locker room” suggest that Mbemba views the decision as a personal affront.
🚨 Chancel Mbemba 🇨🇩 ne fait pas partie du voyage à Rome et ira surement s’entraîner avec la réserve jusqu’à la fin du stage, voire la fin de saison !#TeamOM pic.twitter.com/HSJ1VjmItN
— ALLEZ L’0M 💙🤍 (@ALLEZ_L0M) April 22, 2025
Despite being consistently professional and maintaining high standards in training and competition, he has now been effectively exiled.
The timing—during a crucial period for OM domestically and in Europe—has also raised eyebrows over the sporting logic behind the decision.
Interest from clubs in Serie A and the English Premier League is reportedly growing.
At 30, and with extensive Champions League experience, Mbemba remains a valuable asset on the market.
His performances with the DR Congo national team have remained strong, where he continues to captain the side and play a key role in their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
The contrast between his treatment at club and international level only serves to heighten the sense of injustice.
A return to Marseille’s senior squad appears unlikely.
Unless a surprise reconciliation occurs, Mbemba will train with the reserves until the end of the season or depart earlier should both parties agree to a contract termination.
For OM, replacing not just a defender but a respected leader will prove difficult.
For Mbemba, the road ahead lies beyond the Vélodrome—one paved with professionalism, pride, and perhaps the promise of a fresh start.
