Steve Mandanda Returns to Action and Reaffirms Loyalty to Marseille
Steve Mandanda made his long-awaited return to competitive football this weekend, featuring for Olympique de Marseille in a pre-season friendly against Dutch side Willem II. The French international goalkeeper, who missed the 2014 FIFA World Cup due to a serious neck injury, came on at the start of the second half and marked a significant milestone in his recovery.
The injury occurred on May 17, 2014, during the final day of Ligue 1, when Marseille faced Guingamp. Mandanda sustained a cracked vertebra and a sprain following a heavy collision, ruling him out of France’s World Cup campaign in Brazil.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Mandanda expressed joy at his return: “I’m really happy to be back. It feels great to be with the group again.” Reflecting on the weeks following the injury, the 29-year-old admitted they were particularly challenging. “The first few weeks were long and difficult—not just because of the pain, but also the disappointment of missing the World Cup,” he said.
However, Mandanda chose to use the setback constructively. “I took the opportunity to recover fully and to reflect on myself, especially after a complicated season with OM,” he noted.
Now fully fit, Mandanda confirmed: “The crack has healed well, the sprain is better. I’m no longer in pain, I’m playing, and everything’s going well.”
OM have made a strong start to their pre-season, scoring 11 goals and conceding just two in their first three matches under new head coach Marcelo Bielsa. Mandanda believes the squad is showing positive signs: “We’re playing well, recovering the ball efficiently, and scoring goals. Of course, there’s still room for improvement, but things are looking good overall.”
As for his future, the Marseille captain seems set to continue his journey at the Stade Vélodrome. “Logically, yes,” he responded when asked whether he would remain at the club this summer.
Mandanda’s return is not only a boost for OM ahead of the new Ligue 1 season but also a reassuring sign for fans who continue to see him as a central figure in the club’s ambitions. After months of frustration and recovery, the Marseille stalwart appears ready to reclaim his spot between the posts—and lead by example once again.
