Matt O’Riley Joins Marseille on Loan from Brighton

Matt O’Riley has moved to Olympique Marseille on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion. The deal doesn’t have an option to buy and happened just before the transfer window closed.

WHAT HAPPENED?

O’Riley joined Marseille on a one-year loan. Reports say Marseille will pay €2 million for the loan and some possible extras. They will also cover his full salary. Marseille needed a new player after losing Adrien Rabiot, who is still in their squad but is expected to leave soon as reports suggest that Marseille are willing to sell Rabiot for about €15 million. Other clubs like Juventus, Roma, and Atalanta wanted O’Riley, but Marseille signed him. This deal should make their team stronger.

MARSEILLE AND BRIGHTON: THIS SEASON SO FAR

Marseille started the Ligue 1 season with a win and two losses, placing them 12th after three games with only 3 points, according to recent updates. The team, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, secured Champions League football last year after finishing in 2nd place. Marseille will play Lorient next, who are currently level on points but below on goal difference. Marseille aims to close the gap on leaders Paris Saint-Germain. Brighton, who finished eighth last season, started this season with a draw against Fulham and a loss to Everton before beating Manchester City last wekeend. With O’Riley leaving, they need to improve their midfield lineup.

O’RILEY’S PERFORMANCE AND WHAT NEXT

Matt O’Riley joined Brighton from Celtic last year for €29.5 million. He played 28 Premier League games, scoring 3 goals and assisting 4 times, but wasn’t fully satisfied with his role at the club, even though he made 4 assists and scored 2 goals last season. At Marseille, O’Riley should become an important midfielder, replacing Rabiot as they look to strengthen their squad for upcoming competitions. If he does well, he could receive more offers next summer, perhaps for a return to England or a permanent stay in France.