Matt O’Riley Arrives in Marseille to Complete Loan Move from Brighton

Matt O’Riley has arrived in Marseille to join Olympique de Marseille on loan from Brighton. He will play a key role in midfield for the French team in the 2025/26 season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

O’Riley is set to sign a season-long loan deal. Marseille will pay €2 million plus add-ons and will cover all of his salary. Brighton have approved the move. Marseille will not have the option to buy O’Riley after his loan ends. They needed a replacement for Rabiot to strengthen the squad for Ligue 1 and European matches. O’Riley is now in Marseille to sign the contract and have medical checks, and the move should be completed today.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Marseille are making major changes to their midfield. They want to build on their third-place finish in Ligue 1 last season and prepare for the UEFA Champions League. O’Riley joined Brighton from Celtic for €29.5 million last year. Last season, he played 33 Premier League matches, scoring four goals and giving seven assists. However, new signings and tactics meant he played less often this season. Brighton finished ninth last season, six points away from European qualification.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BOTH CLUBS?

Marseille started their Ligue 1 season with mixed results, after one win and two losses so far, includign against fellow Champions League hopefuls Lyon this weekend, who have a 100% winning record so far. Marseille want to challenge for the title and maintain their Champions League spot. Marseille play Lorient next who are level on points but below on goal difference. O’Riley should be available for this match, giving coach Roberto De Zerbi more choices in midfield. Brighton face Bournemouth in their next Premier League game. West Ham were one place above them last season. Both clubs hope their new signings help them move ahead of their rivals.