Chancel Mbemba addresses complaint against Marseille after Lille unveiling
Chancel Mbemba has spoken publicly for the first time about his legal complaint against Olympique de Marseille, as he begins a new chapter of his career with Lille.
The Congolese international was officially presented as a Lille player on Friday, where he was inevitably asked to comment on his ongoing dispute with his former club.
Mbemba, who captains DR Congo’s Leopards, left Marseille after enduring a season in which he did not feature, a situation that has now led him to pursue legal action.
The 30-year-old defender has lodged a complaint against Marseille, citing allegations of “moral harassment.”
His departure from the French south coast, after previously playing a key role in the team, has left behind not only professional frustration but also potential legal repercussions that may stretch into the coming months.
When asked during the press conference about the matter, Mbemba remained guarded, preferring not to elaborate on the case. Instead, he briefly acknowledged the toll the episode had taken on him personally.
“That’s not the point. Sorry, you need to see my lawyer,” Mbemba said. “I’m focused on football, but I suffered, I suffered a lot.”
The remarks were short but telling, hinting at the difficulties the defender endured during his final season at the Stade Vélodrome.
His frustration over being sidelined has now become a legal dispute, the outcome of which could have serious implications for both player and club.
Mbemba’s move to Lille represents a chance to draw a line under a difficult period. LOSC are counting on his defensive strength and leadership qualities to boost their ambitions in Ligue 1 and in Europe.
For Mbemba, it is also an opportunity to re-establish himself on the pitch after a season spent in the shadows.
Despite his unwillingness to go into detail about the legal case, his repeated emphasis on having “suffered a lot” underscores the depth of his discontent during his final months in Marseille.
While the specifics of the complaint remain in the hands of his lawyers, the fact that he has pursued legal channels suggests that the dispute is far from minor.
The timing of his comments, made during a presentation meant to highlight a fresh start, also demonstrates how closely linked his career trajectory has become with the unresolved issues at his former club.
For now, though, his focus appears firmly on Lille and on rediscovering his best form after a period of professional and personal strain.
Marseille, meanwhile, are yet to issue a detailed response to Mbemba’s complaint. The case, if pursued through the courts, could prove a significant test of the club’s internal practices and its handling of senior players.
For Mbemba, Lille offers a new stage and a chance to concentrate on football once again. But his comments in Lille made clear that his time in Marseille has left a lasting impact — one that will continue to unfold not only on the pitch but in the courtroom.
🆕️ Chancel Mbemba a été officiellement présenté à la presse par le LOSC après sa signature d’une saison avec les Dogues. #RAF pic.twitter.com/OeUQtEwPGk
— RDC🇨🇩Afrique🌍Football⚽️ (@RDCAfrikFoot) September 19, 2025
