In the match against Bayer Leverkusen (1-2) on Wednesday, Marseille’s new recruit, Iliman Ndiaye, was substituted due to an injury at the hour mark. A difficult start for the Senegalese player that raised concerns among the Marseille ranks. However, coach Marcelino was quick to reassure everyone.
On Wednesday evening at the Vélodrome stadium, Olympique de Marseille suffered a defeat against Bayer Leverkusen (1-2) in their final preparation match before the start of official fixtures. Dominated by the German team, the Phocéens were further burdened by their goalkeeper, Pau Lopez, who was at fault for both Bayer’s goals.
But the cup wasn’t full for Olympique Marseille as they also lost their new recruit, Iliman Ndiaye. Recruited this summer and presented with great fanfare, the Senegalese player was substituted at the hour mark, seemingly suffering from muscle issues, causing concern within the team. However, these fears were ultimately dispelled by coach Marcelino.
“It was just cramps. There is no injury tonight. That’s very important for us,” the Spanish coach reassured during the post-match press conference. Indeed, it would have been detrimental to see the young forward from Teranga Lions (23 years old) get injured in his first match wearing the colors of OM, especially as the club is preparing to play the first leg of the third qualifying round of the Champions League against Panathinaikos (Greece) next week.
Ndiaye has generated high hopes in Marseille, thanks to his performances with Sheffield United in the Championship, where he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists. His choice in favor of OM’s project over joining the Premier League with the Blades has also been highlighted by the supporters.
Despite his lack of training with his new teammates and despite the defeat against the Germans, the Senegalese international (7 caps, 1 goal) has already shown promising skills. His technique allowed him to create spaces, and he demonstrated a clear understanding with his compatriot, Ismaila Sarr. Vitinha, who came on at the 58th minute as a replacement for Ndiaye, also brought an interesting offensive dynamic.
Marcelino was particularly pleased with the performance of the three starting forwards (Sarr, Ndiaye, and Aubameyang), characterized by their quality against a strong and physical defense. “You can immediately see that they are three quality players. They had a very good match against a tough and physically powerful defense,” he declared.
OM supporters are now eager to see more of their new striker, Illiman Ndiaye, and hope that he will contribute to strengthening the team in the upcoming competitions. Ndiaye’s first appearance in the Marseille jersey has already shown promising potential, and the club has high expectations for him in the upcoming season.
