Giannelli Imbula, the 20-year-old midfielder, has completed a transfer to Olympique de Marseille from Guingamp for an estimated amount of 8 million euros. Born in Vilvoorde, Belgium, with dual nationality (French and Belgian) and a Congolese father, Imbula began his football training in France with the US Argenteuil club at the age of 6.
Known for his extraordinary game vision and coverage, Imbula earned recognition from opposing coaches, with Philippe Hinschberger referring to him as an “extraterrestrial” and Erick Mombaerts describing him as an “exceptional” player.
Despite being courted by the leaders of the Congolese football federation in July 2012, Imbula declined the offer and opted to wait for the French national team. He made his first appearance with the under-20 French team in May 2013, scoring his first goal in the International “Espoirs” Festival in Toulon.
In the 2012-2013 season with Guingamp, Imbula played 34 matches, scoring 2 goals, and played a crucial role in the team’s promotion to Ligue 1, earning him the title of the best player in Ligue 2.
Joining Olympique de Marseille, Imbula will face competition in central defense and defensive midfield positions, but he is expected to play a significant role in the team’s upcoming season defending their title as runners-up and participating in the Champions League. Despite interest from prestigious clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Juventus, Imbula chose Marseille for the opportunity to compete in the Champions League.
