Africans Abroad archives Features & Interviews Football Foreign Leagues Latest News Morocco Transfers & Rumours

Medhi Benatia reveals missed PSG move that could have altered his career

Medhi Benatia reveals missed PSG move that could have altered his career

Medhi Benatia, now serving as the director of football at Marseille, has opened up about a pivotal moment in his career when he nearly signed for Paris Saint-Germain a decade ago — a move that could have drastically changed his professional path.

The former Moroccan international, who was trained at Marseille before embarking on an illustrious playing career across Europe, shared the revelation in a recent interview with Canal+. Reflec

ting on his journey, Benatia disclosed that PSG had expressed serious interest in acquiring his services during his time at Udinese, but circumstances ultimately led him down a different path.

“The PSG challenge was interesting,” Benatia admitted, explaining that discussions had taken place between his agent and the Italian club regarding a potential move to Paris.

“It was something I considered seriously, but in the end, staying in Italy felt like the right decision for my career at that time.”

At the time of PSG’s interest, Benatia had already established himself as one of Serie A’s standout defenders, attracting attention from several top European clubs.

Despite the appeal of joining one of France’s biggest teams, the Moroccan centre-back opted to remain in Italy, where he eventually signed with Roma.

His performances there further cemented his reputation, leading to high-profile transfers to Bayern Munich and later Juventus, where he won multiple league titles.

Benatia’s decision to bypass PSG in favor of continuing his journey in Italy highlights how a single career move can reshape a player’s trajectory.

While PSG has since solidified itself as a European powerhouse, Benatia’s time with clubs like Bayern and Juventus allowed him to compete at the highest levels of European football, including in the UEFA Champions League.

Now back at Marseille in an executive role, Benatia reflected on how that missed opportunity with PSG fits into the broader narrative of his career.

“Looking back, every choice I made helped shape my path. Of course, I wonder how things could have been different at PSG, but I have no regrets,” he said.

The revelation also reignites the debate about the unpredictable nature of football careers and how even the most promising deals can fall through due to timing, negotiations, or personal decisions.

For Benatia, the road not taken with PSG didn’t hinder his rise in European football but added another layer to a career defined by success and resilience.

Today, as Marseille’s director of football, Benatia channels his wealth of experience into shaping the club’s future — a full-circle moment that brings him back to where his professional journey began.

But the thought of what might have been had he chosen Paris remains an intriguing “what if” in the story of his career.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Football Latest News

Islam Slimani Targeted by Four Interested Clubs

Islam Slimani Attracts Premier League Interest Amid Sporting Lisbon Exit Rumours Algerian striker Islam Slimani may be on his way
Football Latest News

Juventus: Moroccan Younes Bnou Marzouk Loaned to Westerlo

Younes Bnou Marzouk Joins Westerlo on Loan from Juventus 19-year-old Moroccan striker Younes Bnou Marzouk is set for a new
Football Latest News

Friendly: Senegal’s Starting XI to Face South Africa

Senegal Set to Face South Africa in Friendly After Namibia Victory Senegal will take on South Africa in a friendly
COSAFA Countries E-Sports Football

EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR: ANOTHER SCORER FOR TOTTENHAM WHO LEADS AHEAD OF SWANSEA – VIDEO

Emmanuel Adebayor continues to prove his worth on the pitch, dispelling any doubts about his exclusion under André Villas-Boas. On
Blog Football Foreign Leagues Latest News

CHELSEA RECRUITS GHANAIAN CHRISTIAN ATSU THEN LOANS HIM TO VITESSE ARNHEM

The transfer of Ghanaian attacking midfielder Christian Atsu to Chelsea has been officially confirmed. Atsu signed a 5-year contract with
Football Latest News

La Liga: Fayçal Fajr Delighted to Join Deportivo

Fayçal Fajr Joins Deportivo La Coruña on Three-Year Deal Deportivo La Coruña have officially announced the signing of Fayçal Fajr

Discover the ultimate blend of luxury and precision with the best replica watch. This stunning timepiece captures the essence of elegance and performance, making it the perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions. Elevate your style without compromising your budget—experience sophistication today!

[elementor-template id="249733"]