Himad Abdelli endured a brutal introduction to life at Olympique de Marseille as his debut ended in a heavy 5–0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s Ligue 1 Classico.
Signed during the winter transfer window, the Algerian midfielder made his first appearance for OM in one of French football’s most demanding fixtures, coming on in the 60th minute at the Parc des Princes as Marseille were already struggling to contain a dominant PSG side.
The atmosphere proved unforgiving for the 24-year-old, with Marseille overwhelmed throughout a one-sided contest.
PSG asserted their authority with goals from Ousmane Dembélé, who scored twice, along with strikes from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Kang-in Lee, while an own goal compounded Marseille’s misery.
The emphatic win lifted Paris back to the top of the Ligue 1 table with a two-point advantage, while Marseille remained just outside the top three.
Abdelli was introduced with the scoreline already beyond reach, forced to navigate a midfield battle that PSG had firmly under control.
His first minutes in a Marseille shirt came amid collective difficulty, offering little opportunity to influence the course of the match.
Speaking afterwards in the mixed zone, Abdelli did not attempt to avoid responsibility. “It was very difficult.
We need to get back to work as quickly as possible; the end of the season is approaching. We have objectives, and we’re going to do everything we can to achieve them,” he said.
Visibly affected by the performance, the Algeria international went further in his assessment. “I don’t know how we could have played so poorly. I’m speechless. This match is in the past; we need to work and keep our heads up.”
Despite the margin of defeat, Abdelli was keen to stress that the result was more a reflection of Marseille’s shortcomings than PSG’s superiority.
“Paris wasn’t too strong, we weren’t good enough. Under these circumstances, the scoreline is harsh,” he stated.
Still adjusting to his new surroundings, Abdelli defended the quality within the squad and emphasised the standards expected at the club.
“I haven’t been here long, but I’ve seen a quality group. When you wear this badge, you have to hold your head high and make everyone proud.”
He also addressed Marseille supporters directly, acknowledging their importance during a difficult moment. “I ask the supporters not to give up. We’re going to try to give everything.”
For Marseille, the defeat marked a sobering night in their campaign. For Abdelli, it was a harsh baptism that now leaves both player and club focused on responding quickly as the season moves into its decisive phase.
