Congolese international Chancel Mbemba reveals why he chose Lille after leaving Marseille

Chancel Mbemba has explained his decision to join Lille after leaving Marseille at the end of his contract, despite receiving interest from several clubs, including Brazil’s Vasco da Gama.

The Congolese international, who previously played for FC Porto, admitted he had been close to agreeing terms with Vasco before talks broke down over financial issues.

Instead, the 31-year-old opted for a move to northern France, where he signed a deal with Lille until June 2026.

Speaking to L’Équipe, Mbemba said Lille’s project and the club’s president, Olivier Létang, were decisive factors in his choice.

Like everyone else, I looked at social media, and I saw the names of many clubs. But I stayed at home, I worked, and I had the opportunity to talk with the president, Olivier Létang. I had meetings with him. I liked it. He played all the cards he had in hand. He showed me the project. Everyone knows the president; he’s a great man. This opportunity was given to me, and I don’t want to disappoint. I’m happy to come here, Mbemba said.

The defender arrives at Lille on a significantly reduced salary compared with his time at Marseille.

According to Sportune, he will earn an annual wage of €2.16m (£1.8m), a drop from the €5.1m (£4.3m) he received at OM. On Transfermarkt, his current market value is estimated at €2m.

Despite the financial difference, Mbemba believes the sporting project at Lille offers him the best platform to continue competing at a high level.

His arrival has been welcomed by those close to him in Congolese football.

Florent Ibenge, the former DR Congo coach, expressed confidence in Mbemba’s choice: Mbemba will succeed in Lille.

Christian N’Sengi, another former DRC coach, went further, suggesting the centre-back still has the quality to play at the very top. Mbemba has the level to play for a club in the European Top 5, he said.

Lille, who will compete in this season’s Europa League, begin their group-stage campaign against Norwegian side Brann.

Betting company 1xbet has priced Lille as favourites, offering odds of 1.42 for a win, compared with 5.00 for a draw and 6.25 for a Brann victory.

For Mbemba, the move represents both a new challenge and a chance to prove himself once more on the European stage.

His experience and leadership will be key assets as Lille aim to balance their domestic ambitions with a demanding continental campaign.