Omar Marmoush recalls tough Premier League debut against Chelsea defender Reece James

Omar Marmoush says his very first taste of Premier League football came with a lesson he will not forget.

The Egyptian striker, who joined Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt for £65 million in January, admitted that Chelsea captain Reece James made his debut a difficult one.

Marmoush has already shown his pace and flair in England, striking seven times and adding three assists across 19 league games. His ability to stretch defenses has impressed supporters, yet he concedes that James was the defender who tested him most.

“So far, the toughest opponent I’ve faced is Reece James,” Marmoush told Metro. “It was in my first Premier League game. He’s quick, strong, and has great ball control. He gave me a tough time.”

The striker lined up on the left flank that night in January, directly against James, who kept him quiet for much of the contest. City still walked away 3-1 winners, with Josko Gvardiol, Erling Haaland, and Phil Foden on the scoresheet.

“I haven’t played much in the Premier League yet, but I would say James is the toughest,” he added.