A few months ago, despite a disappointing season, OM could console themselves with a victory in the Gambardella Cup, showing some promise in terms of their young players. A rarity for the Olympian club rarely praised for the effectiveness of its training. But since then, it's been a disappointment. As Provence explains, since this victory, OM's young talents have struggled to join the first team or go on loan. Since the start of the season, Enzo Sternal and Keyliane Abdallah have only played 22 and 2 minutes respectively professionally, illustrating the lack of opportunities for this “golden generation”. Six players train with the pros but play on weekends in reserve or ask to play in U19. “There is no strategy for promoting young people,” he does not hesitate to tackle an agent.
No room to let the young hatch?
OM, for their part, believes that training under Roberto De Zerbi is part of the training process, but young people and their agents would prefer loans to gain experience. Frank McCourt had also mentioned in May 2024 the idea of a satellite club to facilitate their development, but no concrete project has seen the light of day. Discussions with Martigues (Ligue 2) and Aubagne (National) failed due to lack of agreement. OM demands guarantees on playing time, and neighboring clubs are encountering financial difficulties. “If OM does not cover salaries, we cannot keep up,” admits an Aubagnais manager. Despite everything, these clubs hope for a partnership, positioning themselves as springboards for young Olympians. Negotiations could resume this winter, but OM must still define a clear strategy for these promising talents. An important new file for Pablo Longoria.
Also read
OM: the crazy anecdote about Papin and his dogs in the club bus
OM: the two demands imposed by management on Jean-Pierre Papin
Featured Podcasts
MEN LIFE
To summarize
Pablo Longoria, the president of OM, finds himself confronted with discontent which is starting to rise internally. A new problem to deal with. Indeed, Roberto De Zerbi does not make much room for young talents, which does not please him.
