Amine Harit has made his long-awaited return to the Olympique de Marseille squad after a three-month injury absence, offering a major boost to Roberto De Zerbi’s side as they push forward in Ligue 1.
The Moroccan international, who suffered a calf injury during Marseille’s 3-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on November 27, 2024, is now fully fit and has been included in the matchday squad for OM’s upcoming clash against Auxerre.
Harit’s return marks the end of a frustrating spell on the sidelines, where both the player and the team felt the impact of his absence.
The 26-year-old’s season had started promisingly, with two goals and four assists in just nine Ligue 1 appearances, showcasing his ability to influence games from midfield.
However, his momentum was abruptly halted during the PSG encounter, where he was sent off just 20 minutes into the match before later sustaining the calf injury that would sideline him for months.
Throughout Harit’s absence, Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi was forced to adapt his tactical approach, seeking alternative midfield combinations to maintain balance in the squad.
While the team navigated the challenges reasonably well, the lack of Harit’s creative spark was often noticeable in tighter fixtures.
“Having Amine back is a massive plus for us,” De Zerbi admitted ahead of the Auxerre match. “He offers something unique in the final third—his vision, creativity, and ability to break lines.
But after such a long time out, we have to be careful. We need to ease him back into competition gradually.”
While Harit’s name on the squad list has delighted Marseille fans, his return to full match fitness will be a gradual process.
He is expected to start on the bench against Auxerre, with De Zerbi keen to reintroduce him cautiously rather than rushing him into the starting lineup.
The playmaker’s last appearance on a matchday squad was during the Coupe de France tie against Saint-Étienne on December 22, 2024, where he remained an unused substitute.
Now, four months later, Harit is eager to reclaim his spot in the starting XI and contribute to Marseille’s push for European qualification.
Supporters at the Stade Vélodrome have been vocal in their anticipation of Harit’s comeback, recognizing the vital role he plays in OM’s attacking structure.
Known for his dribbling skills and ability to unlock defenses, Harit’s presence could be the missing link in Marseille’s bid to close the gap on Ligue 1’s top spots.
Despite the excitement surrounding his return, Harit understands the challenge ahead.
Competition within the squad has intensified during his absence, with younger players stepping up and staking their claim for regular minutes.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment,” Harit said in a brief statement. “It’s been a tough few months, but I’m back, focused, and ready to help the team.
I know I have to fight to earn my place again, but that’s part of the game.”
For De Zerbi, having a fully fit Harit at his disposal as the season enters its decisive phase could prove invaluable.
The manager will hope that the Moroccan can recapture the form he displayed earlier in the campaign, bringing his energy and creativity back into OM’s midfield.
As Marseille prepares for the clash against Auxerre, all eyes will be on Harit, waiting for the moment he steps back onto the pitch.
For both player and club, his return signals a fresh start and a chance to make a meaningful impact in the final stretch of the season.
Absent des terrains depuis le Classico du 27 octobre, Amine Harit fait 𝗘𝗡𝗙𝗜𝗡 son retour dans le groupe Olympien ! 🔙🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/xASJUUBU3I
— Foot Mercato (@footmercato) February 22, 2025
