Bakari Kone urges Bamo Meite to leave Marseille if playing time does not improve

Bamo Meite’s limited involvement at Olympique de Marseille has prompted former OM and Cote d’Ivoire forward Bakari Kone to warn that the defender risks wasting his potential by remaining at the club without regular football.

Meite, 24, has made only occasional appearances since the start of the season and has been unable to establish himself as a consistent member of Marseille’s team. Kone believes his fellow Ivorian now needs to find a situation that will allow him to play more frequently.

“Staying at OM without playing would waste his talent,” was the central message of Kone’s assessment of Meite’s current position.

The former Lorient defender is considered by Kone to have the qualities required to succeed, but a lack of continuity could slow his development. In an interview with 225foot, the former Cote d’Ivoire international highlighted the particular importance of regular matches for a defender at Meite’s age.

Kone’s concern is not only about the number of appearances Meite is making, but also about the effect that inactivity could have on his progress. He believes the centre-back needs a sustained run of games to continue improving and demonstrate his ability at the highest level.

Winter move could be considered

If Meite’s circumstances do not change in the coming months, Kone feels a move away from Marseille during the winter transfer window could be beneficial. A change of environment, and the opportunity to start matches regularly, could help the defender revive his career.

Meite is contracted to OM until 2028. His current market value is estimated at 7 million euros by Transfermarkt. At Marseille, he earns an annual salary of 300 000 euros, equivalent to 195 000 000 FCFA.

Kone believes joining a club where he could accumulate starts would give Meite the best chance of regaining momentum. Regular football could also help him remain in contention for selection by Cote d’Ivoire.

Troyes are due to play Marseille in the sixth round of the French championship shortly. The listed odds for the match are 3.70 for a Troyes victory, 3.70 for a draw and 1.82 for a Marseille win.