Marseille’s Edson Mbengi sparks U16 Bleus hat‑trick, easing Genesio’s worries

Sixteen‑year‑old Edson Mbengi of Olympique de Marseille stunned the France U16 side, netting a hat‑trick as Les Bleus thrashed Ireland 4‑0, a performance that could soon silence Bruno Genesio’s complaints about L’OM’s thin senior squad. The three goals came in the first half, showcasing his finishing instinct and drawing attention from national observers.

Bruno Genesio has repeatedly lamented the reduced depth of his first‑team roster, urging the club to find additional solutions. He argues that injuries and fixture congestion have left L’OM scrambling for options. The manager’s public criticism underscores the pressure on the academy to deliver.

Academy delivers promising talent

The Marseille academy continues to produce players who feature for French youth teams. Edson Mbengi’s hat‑trick is the latest illustration of that pipeline, confirming his quality as a finisher on the international stage. Such performances reward the work carried out in the centre of training.

Mbengi’s international showcase

Called up to the France U16 squad, Mbengi was one of the main architects of the 4‑0 victory over Ireland. He contributed three of the four French goals, a striking ratio for a debutant. The display highlights his ability to influence a match at a young age.

Currently, Mbengi is playing with the Olympique de Marseille U17 National side, still completing his development. He must still progress physically, technically and tactically before a professional contract becomes realistic. The hat‑trick, however, signals that he is on the radar of national selectors.

Broader youth pipeline

The emergence of Mezian Mesloub, also sixteen, at RC Lens demonstrates that French clubs are nurturing multiple prospects simultaneously. L’OM regularly sees its youngsters join various French national selections, confirming the academy’s reputation for producing high‑level talent. These youths provide a pool of options for clubs facing squad‑depth challenges.

While Edson Mbengi is not an immediate solution for Genesio’s first‑team problems, his recent exploits could inspire future integration. The manager may still have to rely on external signings, but the academy’s output offers a promising alternative in the months ahead. For now, the young striker continues to add goals to his résumé, keeping Marseille’s supporters optimistic.