Olympique de Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia has defended the club’s recent focus on Algerian talent during the 2025 winter transfer window, which saw the high-profile arrivals of Amine Gouiri and Ismaël Bennacer.
The strategic moves have not only strengthened the squad but also sparked excitement among Marseille’s Algerian fanbase.
The club made a significant statement by securing striker Amine Gouiri from Stade Rennais for €22 million, and the 24-year-old has wasted no time in making an impact.
In just three appearances, Gouiri has netted two goals and provided three assists, quickly establishing himself as a pivotal figure in Roberto De Zerbi’s attacking setup.
De Zerbi has been effusive in his praise for the forward, even drawing comparisons to Argentine great Gonzalo Higuaín.
“Amine has that natural goal-scoring instinct and an intelligence in his movement that reminds me of Higuaín.
He’s adapted quickly, and his influence on our attacking play is undeniable,” the Marseille manager said.
While Gouiri has shone in front of goal, fellow Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer has brought balance and stability to Marseille’s midfield.
Signed from AC Milan, Bennacer has slotted straight into the starting lineup, impressing in his first two appearances.
Known for his composure on the ball and tactical awareness, the 26-year-old has already begun to dictate the tempo in the heart of Marseille’s midfield.
“Bennacer offers the control and leadership we were missing. He’s a player who can anchor the midfield and help us manage games better,” De Zerbi added.
The arrival of both Algerian stars has struck a chord with a significant portion of Marseille’s fanbase, which shares strong cultural ties with Algeria.
For many supporters, the signings carry a deeper meaning, reflecting the club’s connection to the local community.
Benatia, however, made it clear that the club’s recruitment strategy was purely driven by sporting objectives. “We didn’t sign these players because of their nationality.
We signed them because they are top-quality footballers who fit perfectly into our project,” he explained.
“That said, we know what these players represent for many of our fans, and if that creates more passion and support for the team, it’s a bonus.”
The impact of the new signings has been immediate, with Marseille climbing to second place in Ligue 1 with 43 points.
The reinforcements have not only strengthened the squad but also positioned the team as strong contenders in the race for Champions League qualification.
For Benatia, the focus remains on building a competitive side. “We want players who can perform at the highest level, and Gouiri and Bennacer have already shown they can do that.
Their integration has been seamless, and we believe they will play key roles in the crucial months ahead,” he said.
With Marseille pushing for a return to Europe’s elite competition, the Algerian duo could prove instrumental in helping the club achieve its ambitions.
Their immediate impact has already justified Benatia’s transfer strategy, while the added cultural significance has only strengthened the bond between the team and its passionate supporters.
