Amine Gouiri says joining Olympique de Marseille in January was “a very good choice” as the in-form forward continues to shine in Ligue 1.
The 25-year-old striker has made an instant impact since his arrival during the winter transfer window, registering eight goals and three assists in just 12 appearances.
Speaking to France 24, Gouiri shared his satisfaction at settling quickly into life at the Stade Vélodrome and praised the club’s environment for allowing him to thrive.
“Joining a club in the middle of the season is never easy,” Gouiri said. “You don’t have the same pre-season rhythm as others. You’re expected to perform immediately.
I was mentally ready, and things clicked on the pitch. Honestly, it was a very good decision to come here. I feel happy, fulfilled and I’m enjoying every moment.”
His recent hat-trick against Brest highlighted just how vital he’s become to Marseille’s attacking force. Gouiri admitted he was chasing a fourth goal that night, but the standout moment of the match — an audacious overhead kick — has earned particular attention, with some tipping it for goal of the year.
“Greenwood’s pass was a bit too high,” he recalled, smiling. “If it had been a little lower, I might’ve hit it straight away. But when I took my first touch, the ball stayed high, and instinct just took over.
I went for the overhead. I didn’t even see the ball hit the net, it was the crowd’s reaction that told me. Then they showed it in slow motion on the big screen and the stadium applauded again. That’s when I thought, ‘Alright, that wasn’t bad at all.’”
Beyond the spectacular moments, Gouiri is thriving under a coaching setup that pushes him to be more than just a creative player. He credits his transformation into a more clinical striker to the work being done behind the scenes.
“My coach told me he wants me to be a killer in front of goal,” he said. “I’ve always liked to combine with others, link up play and contribute all around.
But now I’m learning to finish with more authority. It’s a side of my game I’m really enjoying.”
Gouiri also acknowledged the influence of Marseille’s sporting director, Medhi Benatia, whose constant challenges are helping him evolve.
“Benatia keeps the pressure on me in a good way. He wants the best from me and never lets me relax. That kind of attention helps me grow and stay focused.”
Although this season has marked a major breakthrough for Gouiri, he remains grounded. He’s aware that his past inconsistencies have attracted criticism and knows that his current form will lead to higher expectations moving forward.
“I know people see me as a player who’s had ups and downs. This season, with the numbers I’m putting up, I know the bar is now higher. I have to maintain that level or even go beyond it.”
With Marseille currently sitting second in the Ligue 1 table, Gouiri is dreaming of European nights under the lights.
“I want to play in the Champions League with this club,” he said. “That’s the goal. But first, we have to finish strong. Starting with Le Havre tomorrow, that’s the next challenge.”
As the season approaches its climax, few can argue that Amine Gouiri has become one of Marseille’s most decisive signings and a key figure in their pursuit of continental football.
