Major Setback for Nayef Aguerd

Transferred last summer from West Ham for a sum approaching 17 million pounds sterling, the player had nonetheless successfully made his return to Ligue 1. His first weeks in Marseille proved reassuring and allowed him to build confidence. However, the momentum quickly reversed. The news site Hammers points out that the transition on the sidelines, marked by Roberto De Zerbi’s departure and Habib Beye’s appointment, considerably disrupted the central defender’s performance.

On Bladi.net : Nayef Aguerd finally sees the light at the end of the tunnel

This dip in form was illustrated by sharp criticism directed at Olympique’s defense, particularly during their French Cup elimination where teammate Charlie Cresswell displayed clear superiority. To these sporting difficulties is added a serious physical blow. An injury threatens to sideline the Moroccan international until the end of the season, which could directly compromise his participation in upcoming international fixtures, including the World Cup.

Behind the scenes, the situation becomes even more complex with the announcement of sporting director Mehdi Benatia’s departure, scheduled for the end of the current season. This departure represents a major loss. The former captain of the Atlas Lions had relied on their privileged relationship in the national team to recruit him. The player had moreover publicly expressed his gratitude, stating that the executive had "played a greatly decisive role in approving him for the Marseille project."

On Bladi.net : Tough blow for Nayef Aguerd (and the Moroccan team)

The combination of these factors plunges the player’s future into doubt. Deprived of his main support within the management, facing new technical staff and hampered by injuries, his position has been structurally weakened. If this unfavorable context persists, a definitive departure from the Stade Vélodrome as early as the next transfer window becomes a particularly credible outcome.