Leonardo Balerdi is still far from the level displayed in the second part of last season with theABOUT. The central defender's disappointing performances called into question his status as leader and captain of Marseille.
OM: Leonardo Balerdi under pressure, his captaincy threatened?
After a complicated start at OM, Leonardo Balerdi gradually gained strength last season. Much criticized, the Argentinian managed to reverse the trend to become an important player in the central defense of the Marseille club. Even eventually adored by the Vélodrome, he managed to establish himself and even saw his status reinforced with the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi.
Barely arriving at Olympique de Marseille, the Italian did not hesitate to renew Balerdi as one of his essential pawns in the defense and the team. The Argentine international was finally extended with a new contract and a strong decision from De Zerbi: Leonardo Balerdi was named the new captain of the Phocaeans.
“For me, the captain’s armband here is a dream. I’m so happy, it’s something I’ve been looking for for a long time, for me it’s a bit of a confirmation”commented the 25-year-old. However, since the start of the season, he has been performing less than reassuringly to the point of seeing his leadership called into question.
Valentin Rongier soon again with the captain's armband?
Leonardo Balerdi's disappointing performances as OM captain have reignited the debate over the identity of the team's true leader. For Daniel Riolo, the answer is clear: Valentin Rongier. The Marseille midfielder delivered a convincing performance in the victory against RC Lens. Back in the professional group, he found his best level after a long absence. His energy, his experience and his sense of teamwork make him an ideal candidate to take over the captain's armband.
The journalist of RMC stressed the importance of stability in midfield and believes that the Rabiot-Hojbjerg-Rongier association could be the key to OM's success. According to him, Valentin Rongier would allow Rabiot to project himself more forward and thus be more effective. “Rongier is a soldier, he is someone who is always there. He knows how to do things, he compensates in the middle, he will allow Rabiot to play a little higher up”Riolo said.
A choice that could revitalize the team
Rongier's return as captain could have a positive effect on the team as a whole. His experience and charisma could breathe new life into a group in search of direction. Of course, it is up to the coach, Roberto De Zerbi, to make the final decision. But the arguments in favor of Valentin Rongier are numerous and it would be surprising not to see him wear the captain's armband again in the near future. Enough to weaken Leonardo Balerdi's position?
