Tensions Flare at Marseille After Gignac Defends Opponent in Cup Clash
By BBC News
Olympique de Marseille striker André-Pierre Gignac has reportedly clashed with teammate Brice Dja Djédjé following a controversial moment during last Wednesday’s Coupe de la Ligue tie against Rennes.
The incident occurred when Gignac, coming off the bench during the match at Roazhon Park, publicly rebuked Djédjé for a rough challenge on Rennes winger Paul-Georges Ntep. According to French daily L’Équipe, Gignac was visibly unhappy with his teammate’s conduct and made his feelings known immediately on the pitch.
Tensions reportedly escalated the following day at Marseille’s training ground, where Gignac and Djédjé became involved in a heated argument, further straining relations within Marcelo Bielsa’s squad.
Gignac’s decision to side with an opponent rather than his own teammate has raised eyebrows — particularly given the high-stakes atmosphere surrounding Marseille’s domestic campaign. The team is battling for the Ligue 1 title and any internal discord could prove disruptive.
The incident also sparked amusement within the Rennes camp. According to L’Équipe, Ntep became the subject of light-hearted teasing by his teammates following Gignac’s surprising show of support. Philippe Montanier’s squad reportedly found humour in the Marseille striker’s choice to publicly defend the 22-year-old former Auxerre player — who has already notched five goals in 11 league appearances this season — at the expense of one of his own colleagues.
While Marseille have not issued any official comment on the matter, such disputes highlight the emotional intensity of top-flight football and the delicate dynamics within a competitive dressing room.
Gignac, who has been in strong form this season and remains one of Marseille’s most experienced players, is known for his outspoken nature. His visible frustration with Djédjé’s aggressive play may have come from a desire to avoid unnecessary cards or injuries in what was already a tightly contested cup fixture.
For Ntep, meanwhile, the unusual display of solidarity from an opposing player adds another layer to what has been an impressive individual season. The Rennes winger has been widely tipped as one of France’s most exciting young prospects, and the attention from both teammates and rivals underlines his growing influence on the pitch.
As Marseille continue their push for domestic honours, manager Marcelo Bielsa will no doubt be eager to defuse any lingering tension and maintain unity in a squad that has shown promise but also signs of internal pressure.
