Mamadou Niang Returns to Marseille for Emotional Reunion
Marseille, France – Former Olympique de Marseille striker Mamadou Niang made a heartfelt return to his old club on Friday during a friendly match against Arles-Avignon, the team he recently joined this summer.
Niang, who left OM in 2005, described the occasion as a special moment. “OM, I have always held it close to my heart, I am its first supporter, it is my club, my city,” he told Marseille’s official website. “The squad has evolved a lot, but I knew some players before they arrived at OM. I am happy for them that they play at OM because it is the biggest club in France.”
Reflecting on the team’s current form under coach Marcelo Bielsa, Niang acknowledged a mixed start to the season. “They did not start very well with this defeat against Montpellier (0-2), but they recovered well by stringing together two victories in a row,” he said.
He urged fans to be patient as the young squad adapts to Bielsa’s style. “They have the squad for it, we must give Bielsa time to show the players the way he wants to play. The squad is young, it needs time, to learn. I hope the public will be patient with them.”
Niang’s return brought a sense of nostalgia and hope for OM supporters as the club aims to build on recent progress.
– BBC Sport France
