Ounahi Leaves Marseille for La Liga
After weeks of back and forth during the summer transfer window, it seems that Moroccan international Azzedine Ounahi has reached the final stage of his transfer saga. The player, who was not included in Olympique Marseille’s plans for the new season, has been on a continuous search for a club that offers him continuity and competitive play, especially with upcoming national duties in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Ounahi, returning from a successful loan at Greek side Panathinaikos last season, has drawn interest from several European clubs. Brighton was the first to attempt to convince the player, but negotiations did not progress to a formal offer. In contrast, Spartak Moscow moved quickly and agreed to pay the €12 million demanded by Marseille, but the player declined a move to Russia.
With the Russian deal faltering, Girona stepped in with an initial offer that did not convince Marseille’s management. However, they increased their negotiations in the final days of the transfer window. According to sources close to the matter, the two clubs reached a final agreement for Ounahi to join the Catalan team for over €6 million, which includes a clause allowing Marseille to benefit from a percentage in case of a future resale.
With this transfer, Ounahi (25 years old) closes a chapter of three years spent in the French league and opens a new one in La Liga, a competition that has long been viewed as suitable for his technical qualities and vision in midfield. For Girona, this represents a bet on a Moroccan talent capable of providing depth in the midfield and compensating for certain technical shortcomings within the team.
This contract also gives Olympique Marseille a crucial financial relief, as it will allow them to reinvest in strengthening their squad before the transfer window closes.
