Igor Paixão has confirmed that he is staying at OM after receiving offers from Premier League clubs, including Sunderland. The Brazilian winger explained that he prioritized the interests of the Marseille club and the stability of its squad, despite the prospect of a €50m transfer, which could have made him leave Marseille this summer.
During an interview broadcast on Canal+, Paixão detailed the reasons for his choice. He stressed that Marseille had lost several players without being able to recruit immediately due to administrative and financial constraints. A big sale wouldn't have been enough to fill the team's gaps, which is what made him want to stay. According to FootMercato, the Brazilian was close to an agreement with Sunderland, but ultimately opted for continuity at OM, a club he considers a long-term project.
The player also reassured his teammates about the cohesion of the locker room. “A lot of good players left, none arrived, but we have confidence in our group. There are young people coming up to help us too,” he said. This confidence is all the more important as the team's attack has not been strengthened this season, and Paixão positions himself as essential experience to support the staff.
In the same interview, Paixão welcomed the emergence of Keyliane Abdallah, a young player who is starting to get noticed on the Canebière. He complimented the striker's good starts and performances, saying that the coach and staff also have their confidence in him. Abdallah, who has already taken his first steps in the first team, thus benefits from an opportunity to progress under the tutelage of Paixão.
Ultimately, Igor Paixão expressed his commitment to OM and his desire to contribute to the rise of the team. His choice to stay in Marseille, despite attractive offers, strengthens the stability of the club and provides an experienced base for young talents who must now take on more responsibilities. The Marseille club will thus be able to count on the presence of a seasoned player to accompany the next season, while Ligue1 prepares for its challenges.