Michy Batshuayi Faces Competition at Marseille: Bielsa Prefers One Striker Formation
Despite a promising performance against Bordeaux during Ligue 1’s 14th matchday — including scoring his first league goal — Michy Batshuayi is not guaranteed a starting spot this season at Olympique de Marseille. According to OM’s head coach Marcelo Bielsa, Batshuayi’s chances of becoming a regular starter hinge on the future of André-Pierre Gignac.
Bielsa explained his tactical preference during a recent press conference, highlighting the challenges of playing with two strikers simultaneously:
“The problem with playing two number nines is not just putting them on the pitch together but deciding which part of the game you sacrifice. Without a creative midfielder to supply vertical passes, having two attackers forces me to remove a defensive player if I keep the wingers.”
Given this, Bielsa currently prefers a formation that maintains midfield balance rather than playing two forwards. As a result, Batshuayi remains a substitute, patiently waiting for an opportunity — likely dependent on Gignac’s contract situation.
With Gignac’s contract nearing its end, Batshuayi could become Marseille’s future leading striker if he continues to develop and earn Bielsa’s trust.
