Fans of Olympique de Marseille and the Moroccan national team eagerly await the return of star player Azzedine Ounahi to the pitch after an absence of nearly two months due to an injury he sustained while playing for the Atlas Lions in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast. The player recently returned to team training, suggesting his imminent return to competitive matches and a significant boost to the French club's midfield in the final stretch of the season.
General context: From World Cup star to injury challenge
Azzedine Ounahi rose to prominence on the world stage during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he was a key player in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals. His exceptional performances, characterized by his superb dribbling, ball control, and ability to operate in tight spaces, attracted the attention of major European clubs. In January 2023, he transferred from Angers to Olympique de Marseille, one of France's most prestigious clubs. However, his time with his new team has faced some challenges, the most recent being an injury sustained during the Africa Cup of Nations, which sidelined him from the end of the group stage and caused him to miss crucial matches for Marseille in Ligue 1 and European competitions.
The importance of the return and its expected impact
Domestically, Ounahi's return represents a significant morale and tactical boost for Olympique Marseille. The team has struggled with inconsistent results this season, and the Moroccan international's return will provide creative solutions in midfield, as he possesses the ability to break down opposing defenses and create opportunities for his teammates. His presence is expected to enhance the team's attacking prowess as they strive to improve their position in the French league standings and compete for a European qualification spot next season.
On the international stage, Ounahi's return to full fitness is welcome news for coach Walid Regragui and the Moroccan national team. Ounahi is a key player in Regragui's plans, and his absence was keenly felt. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and upcoming international matches fast approaching, the availability of a player of Ounahi's caliber gives the Atlas Lions an extra boost and greater confidence to continue their successful run and build upon their historic World Cup achievement.
