By Former Moroccan International Medhi Benatia Faces Criticism Amidst Azzedine Ounahi Transfer Rumors
Medhi Benatia, ex-Moroccan international and current sports advisor for Olympique de Marseille (OM), is under heavy scrutiny following speculation regarding Azzedine Ounahi’s potential departure from the club.
The facts are clear: Azzedine Ounahi, who joined OM in January 2023, has not lived up to expectations with only 44 appearances, 3 goals, and 1 assist to his name. This has been disappointing for many, especially considering the 24-year-old midfielder’s standout performance in the 2022 World Cup, where he excelled with the Moroccan national team, reaching the semi-finals. Recognizing his talent, even PSG coach Luis Enrique had praised Ounahi just a few months ago. Despite this, the Casablanca native, contracted until June 2027, has now been placed on the transfer list due to underperformance.
Surprisingly, the promising Moroccan doesn’t seem to attract many suitors. Specialty account Soccer212, corroborated by Foot Mercato, reveals that Qatari giants Al-Sadd are the only club showing concrete interest. According to Foot Mercato, Ounahi is tempted by the move. In parallel, Le360 Sport, citing sources close to the player, suggests that he is close to sealing the deal.
EXCLUSIVE: #QSL | Al-Sadd SC has inquired about OM’s midfielder Azzedine Ounahi The Moroccan international is enticed by the prospect. Additionally, De Zerbi does not plan to use him 2 years ago, Ounahi was eyeing Al-Ahli but his advisors… pic.twitter.com/8rNW8YVO42
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 19, 2024
Moroccan media see this early career move as a waste, given Ounahi’s obvious potential. The platform blames Medhi Benatia, appointed OM’s sports advisor in November 2023 and long-time agent of Ounahi. Benatia, described as “greedy” by sources, is accused of jeopardizing Ounahi’s future for personal gain.
Allegations have surfaced suggesting Benatia is pressuring Ounahi. Linking Ounahi’s arrival in Marseille to Benatia’s subsequent hiring, Le360 Sport accuses the former defender of pushing the player towards Qatar to secure a lucrative commission. Furthermore, the veteran is allegedly intimidating his protégé. “Benatia has coerced Ounahi, playing a toxic role, even threatening to sideline him if he refuses to go to Qatar,” claims sources close to the player as reported by the site.
INFO ON OUNAHI: Initially, Ounahi expressed a desire to leave OM. However, after a few training sessions with De Zerbi, he changed his mind. Nonetheless, the club had already tagged him for transfer… pic.twitter.com/7bVv3vFt5o
— SOCCER212 (@SCCR_212) July 19, 2024
These serious claims have been denied by Soccer212, which states that Benatia actually discouraged Ounahi from moving to the Gulf, advising a move to a top European club instead. For now, the truth remains murky, and the Ounahi saga is far from over.
