The returns to OM: a story that disproves prejudices

We often hear that returning to one's club is a sign of a lack of ambition, or even decline, don't you think, friends? Yet, when you take a close look at the recent history of OM, it's not that simple. Even though we are wary of comebacks in modern football—between nostalgia and suspicion of opportunism—Marseille has often proven that these returns can write some truly great pages. So, is it a bad idea or a tradition with benefits? Let's break it down together, informally yet factually!

Mandanda, Payet, Fanni, Thauvin, Barthez: five returns, five successes

If we apply the strict filter—only those who returned to wear the Marseille jersey in an official match after trying their luck elsewhere—we have five well-known cases in the 21st century. Steve Mandanda, first: left for Crystal Palace, returned after a short English stint, he completes the loop in Marseille by once again establishing himself as the leader in goal. Let's be clear, without him, many seasons would have soured. He reassured, united, and reminded everyone what it means to "be Marseille."

The same goes for Dimitri Payet. We saw him shine at West Ham and then at Euro 2016, and it was an ambitious OM that went after him, even if it meant spending more than 30 million euros. A risky bet? Yes, but a largely winning one: Payet is all about spectacle, stats, and above all, a role as a technical and emotional leader. We vibrated, complained, and hoped with him—you did too, right?

Rod Fanni, it's not the most flamboyant comeback, but in a crisis OM, he served as cement, as a reference point. It's not just about the stars in life: sometimes it's the quiet soldier who makes the difference. Worth pondering!

Then there's Florian Thauvin. His move to Newcastle seemed like a bad idea, and he soon realized it. Returning to Marseille, it's the real takeoff: goals, assists, selection, and a World Cup! It shows that a comeback can also be the start of maturity. Finally, it's impossible not to mention Fabien Barthez. Returned in an emergency, he literally carried the team to the UEFA Cup final. Who remembers that with emotion?

Why does it (often) work in Marseille?

So, what makes these returns successful at OM? The answer isn't magical, but we have a little idea... Here, you don't just come seeking a smooth contract. There's the pressure, the passion, and especially the attachment to the city and the jersey. Returning to Marseille is a challenge: either you fail, or you take another step up in the club's legend. And let's be honest, there's a real culture of forgiveness (when you give your all), and an audience ready to fall in love again... as long as you prove it on the field. Do you agree?

The “Auback” case: gamble or truly good idea?

And now, what do we do with this rumor of an Aubameyang return—the famous “Auback”? On one hand, you could say it's risky: he's aged, the club's finances aren't limitless, and we sometimes have a tendency to want to replay past stories. But the history of returns to OM shows that, when thought through, it can work well. Aubameyang knows the place, he loves the challenge, and he could also be the offensive leader that our squad sometimes lacks. Especially, let's not lie, it would make the Vélodrome vibrate... provided it's both sportingly and economically reasonable. What do you think? An “Auback”, is it reheating or the good surprise to come?

Shall we discuss?

Come on, it's your turn: according to you, should we believe in Aubameyang's successful return to OM, or would we be better off betting on new blood? What are your favorite memories of these Marseille comebacks? Share your thoughts in the comments, friends, and long live our OM!