Michy Batshuayi Poised to Take Centre Stage at Marseille Following Gignac’s Departure
Michy Batshuayi is preparing for a breakthrough season at Olympique Marseille as the club faces a new chapter with the imminent departure of André-Pierre Gignac. Although the Belgian striker has had limited playing time this season, he has made his mark whenever called upon, and now stands ready to step into the spotlight.
In an interview with TF1’s Telefoot, Batshuayi spoke candidly about Gignac’s exit and the future of coach Marcelo Bielsa, whose continued presence at the club is seen as pivotal.
“It’s partly thanks to him (Marcelo Bielsa) that I made the choice to come here. We’re impatiently waiting for his response; it’s important that he stays. We’re keeping our fingers crossed,” Batshuayi said.
Reflecting on Gignac’s influence, the young forward added, “He’s someone who is one of my friends. I made sure to keep in contact with him, and he told me he was leaving me his place. It’s going to be an important season with a lot of pressure and challenges, but that’s why I came. I’m going to do everything to be ready.”
Batshuayi also acknowledged the importance of balancing rest and preparation ahead of the new season: “I already want to get back to work, but rest is important.”
With Gignac’s departure, Marseille is placing its hopes on Batshuayi to spearhead their attack and help the club compete for honours domestically and in Europe. The striker’s readiness to embrace the responsibility signals an exciting new era for both the player and the club.
