Chancel Mbemba’s situation at Olympique de Marseille has come under increased scrutiny as the Congolese defender remains sidelined despite earning a reported €280,000 per month.
His continued absence from the team has sparked criticism, particularly as Marseille grapples with defensive frailties and inconsistent results.
Marseille’s latest setback came on March 29, when they suffered a defensive collapse in a 2-1 defeat to Reims.
The crisis deepened when Leonardo Balerdi was forced off due to injury in the 35th minute, leaving the team exposed at the back.
The decision to keep Mbemba out of the squad has been questioned, with football analyst Pierre Ménès among those voicing their concerns.
“And behind that, when Balerdi goes out, it’s an absolute shambles,” Ménès remarked, pointing to the defensive struggles Marseille faced in the match. He also criticized the club’s management for allowing a player on a significant salary to remain on the sidelines without contributing. “Spending such a sum on Mbemba while he doesn’t play is a costly mistake for a club in difficulty,” he added.
An uncertain future for Mbemba
Since the beginning of the season, Mbemba has not featured in a single competitive match for Marseille, a stark contrast to his pivotal role in previous campaigns.
With his contract set to expire in June, his time at the club appears to be drawing to a close.
Despite his salary, Mbemba is reportedly not among the top earners at the club, further fueling speculation about why he has been excluded from the squad.
Marseille’s management has yet to provide a clear explanation for his absence, leading to speculation over internal tensions or tactical decisions keeping him out of action.
With his contract nearing its end, Mbemba is widely expected to move on, potentially seeking a fresh start elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Marseille must navigate the remainder of the season without him, a decision that could continue to invite criticism if their defensive struggles persist.
