Serge Aurier has emphatically ruled out any possibility of signing with Olympique de Marseille, insisting that his loyalty to former club Paris Saint-Germain is too strong to be compromised — even for the sake of his career.
Currently a free agent after parting ways with Galatasaray in early 2024, the 32-year-old Ivorian full-back has been linked with several clubs as he seeks a new chapter.
Among them was Marseille, whose sporting director, Medhi Benatia, reportedly made contact in recent months.
But Aurier, speaking in an interview with Kampo, shut down the idea with a striking declaration: “I’d rather not eat than sign for Marseille.”
Aurier, who made 81 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain between 2014 and 2017, left no room for ambiguity in his response.
For him, joining the capital club’s fiercest rivals would not only be a professional move — it would be a betrayal of the deep connection he forged during his time in Paris.
“It’s weird!” he remarked. “You go to the Classicos and you say, ‘Go Paris! Go Paris!’ When you win, you’re the happiest person in the world… and now, you’d do the opposite?”
This sentiment marks a clear contrast to fellow former PSG player Adrien Rabiot, who has drawn criticism in the past for being open to moves that could include rivals.
Aurier, however, is adamant that such a shift in allegiance is not compatible with the values he holds as a footballer — and as a former Parisian.
Born in the Parisian suburb of Sevran, Aurier’s attachment to PSG runs deep. Though he has since had stints with Tottenham, Villarreal, Nottingham Forest, and Galatasaray, it is the Parisian club that remains etched in his heart.
His declaration may not find favor with fans in Marseille, but it is likely to resonate with those in Paris who value loyalty as much as skill on the pitch.
Yet, for all his conviction, Aurier remains without a club — and time is ticking. At 32, the Ivorian international, who has 90 caps with the national team and captained the Elephants at major tournaments, is entering the twilight of his career.
He has expressed a desire to stay at a competitive level, and suggestions have surfaced around a possible return to the Premier League or a move to a top-tier European side.
Asked about a potential switch to Arsenal, Aurier did not dismiss the idea — though no official contact has been reported. Still, with the summer transfer window wide open, options may arise as clubs seek experience and depth, particularly in the full-back position.
For now, though, what’s clear is that Aurier’s principles remain non-negotiable. Marseille may have come calling, but the Ivorian’s heart — and footballing allegiance — still belongs to the Parc des Princes. Whether that loyalty will ultimately cost him a contract or earn him a new admirer elsewhere remains to be seen.
