News Focus
- Himad Abdelli will not feature for Marseille again this season
- The Algeria international fell out with manager Habib Beye after the Nice match
- The midfielder joined from Angers in January for under €3m
- He has failed to score or assist in nine appearances for the club
- Beye’s own position is under threat due to poor league results
Algerian midfielder Himad Abdelli looks set to miss the remainder of the campaign for Olympique de Marseille. The 26-year-old has been banished from the first team squad following a heated disagreement with head coach Habib Beye.
According to reports from RMC Sport, the pair clashed after Marseille’s recent draw with OGC Nice. Beye publicly criticised Abdelli during his post-match media duties. The manager has been unhappy with the player’s attitude and performances since his arrival.
Abdelli moved to the Stade Vélodrome in January from SCO Angers. Marseille paid just under €3 million for his signature. His contract with the Ligue 1 side was due to expire at the end of the season, which allowed for a reduced transfer fee.
Since his switch, the attacking midfielder has struggled to make an impact. He has played nine matches without finding the net or providing an assist. His displays have drawn heavy criticism from the coaching staff.
The bust-up with Beye means Abdelli was left out of the recent matchday squad. Sources indicate he will remain on the sidelines until June. His long-term future at the club now hangs in the balance.
Meanwhile, Beye faces his own uncertain future. Marseille currently sit outside the Champions League qualification places. Failure to secure a top-four finish could cost the manager his job.