Congolese defender Chancel Mbemba says he holds no grudge against Marseille

Chancel Mbemba has drawn a line under his dispute with Olympique de Marseille, expressing respect and gratitude toward his former club after Lille’s 2–0 win over Nantes in Ligue 1.

The Congolese international defender, now 31, made his stance clear following a long period of tension that marked his final year in Marseille.

Speaking to Ligue 1+, Mbemba said he feels no bitterness toward his former employers.

“Do I still have a grudge against OM? No,” he said. “I respect Marseille. I thank President Pablo Longoria, the fans, and my former teammates.

Thanks to them, I was able to show what I could do.”

Mbemba’s words marked a significant shift in tone after months of strained relations.

His departure from Marseille came amid controversy, with disagreements reportedly linked to contract and internal issues.

Yet, the defender now seems focused on his new chapter with Lille, embracing stability and a sense of belonging.

At Lille, Mbemba has become a key part of the club’s defensive setup. He also acknowledged the trust placed in him by his new management.

“Thank you to our president,” he said. “He gave me an opportunity when many doubted me. Thank you to the coach, the staff, and my teammates.

The most important thing is health. We will continue to work.”

His comments reflect a player determined to move forward through professionalism and perseverance.

Mbemba’s gratitude toward Lille’s president and coaching staff highlights his renewed motivation after a challenging spell in Marseille.

His words also underscore his focus on hard work and team unity as Lille continue their strong domestic campaign.

Despite his positive remarks, Mbemba’s legal battle with Marseille remains unresolved. The Congolese defender previously filed a complaint against the club for moral harassment, a case that remains under judicial review.

Neither side has issued further updates on the matter, though Mbemba’s tone suggests he prefers peace over confrontation.

Since joining Lille, Mbemba has earned praise for his leadership, consistency, and ability to inspire younger players. His experience in top European competitions continues to strengthen the team’s defensive structure.

The Congolese captain’s calm presence and tactical intelligence have also helped Lille maintain balance on and off the field.

For Mbemba, the focus now lies squarely on football. He has spoken about prioritising personal well-being, team success, and professional growth over past controversies.

His comments after the Nantes match demonstrate a renewed commitment to progress and maturity.

As Lille chase a strong finish in Ligue 1, Mbemba remains one of the squad’s most dependable figures. His message of gratitude, resilience, and respect stands as a reminder of his enduring professionalism — even after a turbulent exit from Marseille.

“I hold no grudge,” Mbemba repeated with a smile. “I’ve moved on. I’m thankful for everyone who helped me along the way. The most important thing now is to keep working and stay healthy.”