Sellami and Bakola, the new generation at OM

Bakola and Sellami share their first impressions on De Zerbi's demanding methods: is the Olympian youth ready to shake up the hierarchy?

Reporter

There's (always) something special happening at La Commanderie. With Valentin Rongier's departure for Rennes, Yanis Sellami has been called up to join the first team for preseason. But what grabs our attention is his inseparable duo with Darryl Bakola. These two seem like they've been moving forward hand in hand from the Montaigu U16 tournament to the doorstep of Ligue 1. Are you starting to dream in blue and white with them too?

A Friendship and an Extraordinary Journey

Let's be honest: seeing two kids from the academy climbing the ranks together stirs the Olympien heart. Victory in the Gambardella 2024, a U17 title the same year, selections for the national team... and now the pros! But behind the bromance, it's also a sign of stability for our OM, which is often criticized for lacking continuity. Do you agree with me that this kind of camaraderie can make a difference in the locker room?

Bakola, the Versatile One Who Commands Respect

Darryl Bakola, aka "Darsko" or "Derka," is not just the ordinary talent we see every ten years. His buddy Sellami can't stop singing his praises: Bakola has played every position at OM, from striker to midfielder, without ever disappointing. But it's really in the heart of the game that he shines and asserts himself. Can this "Swiss Army knife" profile really explode under De Zerbi? We often discuss it at the bar, versatility is all well and good, but he will need to settle in one position to establish himself in the starting eleven, right?

Big Brothers and a Demanding Coach: The School of Rigor

What also stands out about these youngsters is their relationship with the team's leaders. Adrien Rabiot, Hojbjerg, Kondogbia... they serve as mentors, not just for pats on the back. Bakola draws inspiration from Rabiot, who supports him on and off the field. And Sellami recounts those training duels where the physical differences are noticeable. You can feel the famous "winning culture" taking root in the youth. It's encouraging, but is it enough to withstand the pressure of the Vélodrome?

The De Zerbi Challenge: Turning Excitement into Performance

With Roberto De Zerbi, the freestyle of the academy is over, and rigor takes center stage. Precise positioning, chains of repetitions, surgical instructions... Some young players might find it tedious, but to break through to the pros, it's the only way. The question remains whether our two gems will keep their flair while developing the tactical precision that juniors sometimes lack. Would you bet on them to make an impact in the short term or prefer to bide your time?

A Promise for the Future of OM

Between friendship, talent, and a good head on their shoulders, Sellami and Bakola represent a true promise for our club. But beware, we all know the professional path is fraught with pitfalls: managing playing time, media pressure, temptations from abroad... We're betting that OM will know how to support them, but it will require effort!

So, friends, do we have here the future backbone of OM? We await your opinions: do you see them establishing themselves or leaving like so many other talents? Tell us everything in the comments, and let's keep vibrating together for our OM!

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