Revolution in the Middle: Between Gomes' Genius and Rongier's Surprise Departure

OM's spectacular transfer market isn't focused solely on its forward line. It's the team's true engine room, the heart of the game, that's undergoing a complete overhaul. The sports management is looking to reshape its midfield to inject more technique, creativity, and control, to align with the new playing philosophy advocated by the coach. The initial maneuvers confirm this trend, with an exciting arrival and a departure that causes a bit of an uproar.

Angel Gomes, the new technical compass

He is the first major recruit of the summer and will wear a symbolic number, 8. Angel Gomes is officially a Marseille player. During his presentation, his words were clear: he defines himself as a "technical" player, but above all "versatile." Capable of playing as a defensive midfielder (position 6), a central midfielder (position 8), or a playmaker (position 10), he offers immense tactical flexibility. It's the promise of a more refined, more thoughtful football. His profile is that of a player capable of breaking through opposing lines, not by force, but with a brilliant pass or a well-judged dribble. That's precisely what was missing at times last season. His ambition, openly displayed – "to win a trophy with the club" – sounds like sweet music to the supporters' ears, who are yearning for just that.

The Rongier case: The end of a cycle?

It's the news that shook the Marseille microcosm: Valentin Rongier, one of the stalwarts of the locker room and former captain, has been officially placed on the transfer list. The club is reportedly asking for 10 million euros, a decision following a refusal by the player to extend his contract. Beyond the contractual aspect, this decision is significant. Is it a sign that the club now prioritizes more "player" profiles over "warriors"? Losing a player with Rongier's mentality, "grinta," and game volume is no small matter. He is the kind of soldier every coach loves to have. Sunderland is said to be interested. If this departure is confirmed, it would signify a major philosophical shift and mark the end of an era.

A midfield in search of balance

This reconfiguration is taking place in a context of a thrilling transfer market. The failure to sign Argentine Ezequiel Fernández, who eventually chose Real Sociedad for nearly 20 million, forced the recruitment unit to explore other options. In this context, the interest in Houssem Aouar, whose value is estimated at 9 million, makes perfect sense. It's a technical, creative profile that is well-acquainted with Ligue 1. Between the arrival of Gomes, the scheduled departure of Rongier, and the pursuit of other targets, OM is building a radically different midfield. The gamble is bold: less combat, more technique. Time will tell if the recipe is right.

Check out Seb's full analysis on all the midfield movements in his latest video!