Kamissoko makes early case for Mali call-up after first Marseille start

Nouhoum Kamissoko made his first start for Olympique de Marseille in Sunday’s 2-0 win at Troyes, and the 21-year-old midfielder is already being monitored by Mali’s new coaching staff.

Kamissoko was selected as a defensive midfielder after the absence of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg left Marseille needing another option in the centre of the pitch. Bruno Genesio opted to give the youngster his first opportunity in the professional starting line-up, and he responded with one of the most encouraging performances of the evening.

Although he was substituted in the 73rd minute after suffering from cramps, and was involved in several rugged challenges, Kamissoko’s overall display remained impressive. He recovered six balls, provided a strong physical presence and showed composure when directing play from deep.

He also played a part in the move that led to Amine Harit opening the scoring. Genesio highlighted the initiative shown by Kamissoko and Kelyann Bezahaf, the other young player handed a start against Troyes.

“They were the two who took the most initiative,” Genesio said.

Mali interest grows

Born in Bamako and developed at Etoiles du Mande, Kamissoko joined Marseille in 2023. He continued his development on loan at Chateauroux during the 2024-2025 season, but his first start for Marseille has given his progress a new dimension.

According to journalist Romain Molina, Mali’s new technical staff had already been following Kamissoko before his appearance in the starting line-up. A call-up for November could therefore become a realistic possibility if he maintains his form over the coming weeks.

There has, however, been no official pre-selection, and one match alone is not enough to guarantee the midfielder a place with the Aigles. The timing may still work in his favour. Anthony Da Silva showed with his first squad list that he was willing to introduce new players at the beginning of his cycle with Mali.

Kamissoko’s energy and determination to make the most of every opportunity could appeal to the Franco-Portuguese coach. Competition for places in Mali’s midfield will nevertheless be considerably stronger than it was at Troyes, while the player’s immediate priority remains establishing himself at Marseille.

A possible international call-up would be positive news for both Kamissoko and Mali, although it could create an additional challenge for Genesio. Marseille’s squad remains limited in size, the club are competing in several competitions and some of their international players returned from the most recent break carrying physical problems.

For now, Kamissoko’s task is straightforward: make the most of the minutes he receives for Marseille and prove that his successful first start was not simply the result of circumstances. If he can do that, a place in the November squad may become more than a possibility.