Mbemba's return: a symbolic gesture or a strategic move?

Chancel Mbemba, the Congolese central defender of Olympique de Marseille (OM), is making his big comeback after several months on the sidelines. Suspended in mid-July and away from his club for a long period, his long-awaited return raises questions in the world of football. Is this a symbol of reconciliation between the player and his club, or a strategic move by OM in view of a season already full of challenges? The analysis of this return is complex, oscillating between these two possibilities.

A return after a long absence

Chancel Mbemba, a pillar of the Congolese team, has not only made headlines for his exploits at club level. During his prolonged absence from OM, he has continued to shine in the national team, notably by leading the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo to two important victories against Tanzania in the qualifiers for the African Cup of Nations (CAN). These international performances have consolidated his status as a leader, capable of carrying his team, even outside the European sphere.

Yet it is his reintegration into the Marseille team that is intriguing. OM announced his return by posting a video on their social media platforms, which immediately sparked excitement among fans. However, OM coach Roberto De Zerbi quickly calmed the ardor by stating that his return did not automatically mean that Mbemba would become a central part of the defense again. “We should not expect miracles,” he said at a press conference, leaving doubts about the role Mbemba would play for the rest of the season.

Symbolic or tactical gesture from OM?

Mbemba’s return can be interpreted in two ways. On the one hand, it is a highly symbolic gesture, especially after a period of tension between the player and the club. Sidelined after internal disagreements, his reinstatement could symbolise a reconciliation, sending a message of unity to the entire team. For a club like Marseille, which is going through a season marked by challenges on and off the pitch, bringing back a figure as popular and influential as Mbemba could help to strengthen cohesion and restore the trust of the fans.

However, on the other hand, it is hard to ignore the strategic implications of this move. With several new recruits in the squad, OM have made adjustments to find balance in their defensive line. Mbemba's return could be an attempt to strengthen a defense that has sometimes been considered too permeable, despite the uncertainties over his status within the team. Mbemba's past performances, both in Ligue 1 and in international competitions, could well allow him to become a major asset for Marseille again, especially in key moments of the season.

Mbemba's future at OM

Although De Zerbi warned that an immediate miracle should not be expected, it is clear that Mbemba has the skills to regain his starting place, especially if OM's defensive situation were to deteriorate. At 29, the defender remains in excellent physical condition and his experience will be crucial in guiding the club's young players. The coming months will be decisive in seeing if Mbemba can turn this symbolic return into something that will be a success.