Chancel Mbemba, the Marseille episode ends abruptly

Chancel Mbemba's adventure at OM seems to have taken an unexpected turn. After a mixed spell and recent tensions, the Congolese defender found himself sidelined, first suspended in August and September for unexplained medical absences. Despite his participation in the CAN qualifiers with the Congolese selection, his return to Marseille seems to be nothing more than a mirage. Coach Roberto De Zerbi has already made it clear that he is no longer counting on him this season, thus perhaps closing the last chapter of Mbemba's story at OM.

A silent arm wrestling match

For several months, Olympique de Marseille and Mbemba have been living in a tense climate. It all started with absences from mandatory medical examinations, which prompted the club to take action. As a result, the defender had part of his salary withdrawn, which did not fail to create a deep malaise between the two parties. In the shadow of these tensions, the player nevertheless continued to shine in the colors of his country, displaying dazzling form with the Leopards of Congo during the CAN qualifiers.

However, the reception on his return to Provence was frosty. De Zerbi, who has recently taken charge of the team, declared at a press conference that he was not counting on Mbemba for the rest of the season. The message is clear: the player's future now lies elsewhere. But why such a break, when the player, despite his fluctuating performances, has always been recognized for his defensive solidity?

The reasons for an announced divorce

Modern football is often about human relationships as much as it is about athletic performance. Mbemba is a player who, when he is confident, can provide incredible stability to a defense. However, misunderstandings and tensions surrounding his medical absences seem to have taken their toll on his relationship with the club. There are even rumors of a deep disagreement over his physical management and availability, especially after he favored the Congolese selection.

But it's not all about unavailability. The style of play advocated by De Zerbi, more focused on quick recovery and high defense, may no longer fit Mbemba's profile. For the Italian coach, OM must aim for a more fluid, fast game, where the central defenders must not only defend, but also launch attacks. And in this game, Mbemba, despite his obvious qualities, does not fit into the plans.

Mbemba, a future far from the Vélodrome?

If not in Marseille, where could the solid Congolese defender bounce back? There is no shortage of doors for a player of his caliber. At 30, Mbemba still has several good seasons ahead of him. Whether in France, in another European club or even in Africa, there is no shortage of options.

Football is also a matter of timing, and perhaps a departure this winter or at the end of the season could revive a career that has been slowed down by off-field decisions. Barring a spectacular turnaround, it seems clear that the divorce with OM is complete.

In the meantime, Mbemba continues to wear the Congolese jersey with pride. For the defender, this is probably where his refuge lies today, far from the worries of Marseille and the controversies of France. One thing is certain: no matter where he ends up, Mbemba has not said his last word.