At 36, YounèsBelhanda presents himself as a leading option for Olympique de Marseille, affirming that he is ready to resume his role as midfield instigator in Ligue 1. The Moroccan attacking midfielder, former French champion with Montpellier in 2012, recently raised the possibility of a return to France while he is currently playing in Qatar. He said he had not received any concrete offers since the end of his previous contract and was confident he could establish himself in the most competitive French teams.
Belhanda, who has already played for prestigious clubs like DynamoKiev, Schalke04, Galatasaray, as well as the Turkish club and the Qatari club, stressed that he still possesses the qualities necessary to shine in the French championship. He claimed that he plays daily in Ligue 1, whether for Marseille, Lyon, Lille or other teams, and insisted that OM lack a true number 10. “In Marseille, they have no one in the 10 position,” he said, emphasizing his ambition to contribute to the creativity behind the striker.
The player also expressed his interest in returning to Montpellier, his training club, but clarified that he preferred to stay in the elite rather than playing in Ligue 2. “I have the level to play in Ligue 1, not to play in Ligue 2,” he said. This statement reignited the debate among Marseille supporters and leaders on the need for a creator capable of piloting the attack. Although Belhanda's comments have attracted attention, it remains to be seen whether a French club, and in particular OM, is ready to offer him a place in their squad.
As for transfer prospects, no official deal has been announced yet. Social networks and the media have, however, reported that the discussion is open, and that OM could consider a transfer window to fill the lack of creativity in its midfield. Saudi investors have also been mentioned as potential parties to support such a transaction. Overall, OM still have to take the step to materialize a possible return of Belhanda, but the player's proposal opens up new possibilities to strengthen the Marseille team.