Medhi Benatia reveals Elye Wahi made ‘financial sacrifices’ to join Marseille | OneFootball

Following their failed attempts to sign Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah in the summer transfer window, Olympique de Marseille switched their attention to signing Elye Wahi (21) from Lens. Eventually, Les Olympiens agreed a deal with the Racing club to sign the striker for a fee in the region of €25m excluding bonuses.

Speaking to beIN Sport, OM sporting director Medhi Benatia revealed that Wahi was resolute in his desire to join Les Phocéens and was willing to make ‘sacrifices’ to make the move to the Stade Vélodrome happen. The former Montpellier striker joined Marseille on a 5-year contract lasting until 2029, but Benatia revealed that he had to make financial sacrifices compared to his previous contract with Les Sang et Or.

Commenting on Wahi’s move and desire to join Marseille, the former Juventus defender said, “For example, this was a player with a strong desire, but when I spoke with him he told me listen, I told my club, I called my agent and I want OM. This is a player who made financial sacrifices to come to Marseille, that is factual. We can say whatever you want but that is concrete. It is strong for me when a player is ready to make an effort and sacrifices to come.”

The France U21 international got his wish in the end. He has already made 3 appearances for Les Olympiens in Ligue 1 this season and scored his first goal for the club.

GFFN | Liam Wraith