A few days after being recruited, Iliman Ndiaye was officially presented on Monday as a player of OM (Olympique de Marseille). The Senegalese attacking midfielder, who arrived at the Phocéens this summer from Sheffield United in the Championship, where he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists last season, held his first press conference wearing the colors of the Marseille club. The 23-year-old player expressed his ambitions with OM, a club considered by many as close to his heart.
“We play for OM to win matches. We prepare to win them. There’s no pressure, we just have to do the job as we know how to do it. Of course, I think about winning individual awards. OM is watched all over the world. Playing for OM can help me win individual distinctions, but I’m currently thinking first and foremost about the team,” said the Lion of Teranga, as reported by the club’s website.
“I give myself on the field, I work hard. I’m a dribbler, I want to give everything for the shirt, fight for my teammates, and do everything to win matches. I have goals. I want to win titles. The season has not started yet. We need to win all the matches, and depending on how the season goes,” Ndiaye continued. “I can be useful in all attacking positions. My favorite position is as a second striker. The coach will know how to use me,” added the 23-year-old player.
Iliman Ndiaye’s arrival in the city of Marseille has sparked great hope among the fans. His choice in favor of OM’s project over discovering the Premier League with Sheffield United has also been highlighted by the supporters.
Despite his lack of training with his new teammates and despite OM’s friendly defeat against Bayer Leverkusen (1-2) last week, the Senegalese international (7 caps, 1 goal) has already shown promising signs. His technique has allowed him to create opportunities, and he has demonstrated evident chemistry with his compatriot Ismaila Sarr and Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who was also recruited this summer.
