Neal Maupay lands a victory over Elye Wahi at Marseille | OneFootball

Elye Wahi (21) was brought in over the summer to be Olympique de Marseille’s main man. However, that is not how it is transpiring.

The Frenchman struggled in his one and only season at RC Lens, before making a €25m move to Marseille. However, he is struggling to justify the price tag having scored just twice in 12 games. Neal Maupay (28) was also signed by OM this summer but not necessary to play a leading role.

His move from Everton came later in the window and his role was to provide back-up to Wahi. However, the hierarchy has been flipped. Maupay has two goals in 10 games but also has four assists. He has now started Marseille’s last five games. Following Les Phocéens’ latest win, against AS Saint-Étienne on Sunday, Roberto De Zerbi alluded to the importance of the former Brighton and Hove Albion forward.

“Maupay is an example on and off the pitch. He has a lot of qualities. He has a lot of aggression in his game. He is different from Elye Wahi, he is a player that plays more in the box… they have ages and a level of maturity that are different but it is true that, at the moment, Neal is fundamental for our team,” said the Italian.

For now, Maupay looks like the first pick at Marseille. It is a decision that could have consequences with La Provence suggesting that OM could sell Wahi in January if his level is not raised and in the event of a good offer.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle