Olympique de Marseille defy €35 million Sunderland offer to keep Paixao
The lights of Stade de l'Aube flickered as Igor Paixao trudged off after 87 minutes, his frustration evident. The Brazilian striker has yet to find the net in six official matches this season, and the Mercato buzz in Marseille has only intensified around his future.
Transfer saga stalls
Bruno Genesio did everything possible to keep Paixao this summer. A principle agreement had been reached with Sunderland for a €35 million transfer – the exact amount Olympique de Marseille invested a year earlier to sign the Brazilian. The deal was halted after club owner Frank McCourt gave his final blessing for Paixao to stay.
Speaking to Canal Football Club, Paixao explained, “The club’s situation made me stay. I thought about the good of the club. Even if they sold me, they could not replace me, a piece that is important for them.” He added, “It is the right choice, it is clear, I want to continue playing and give my maximum.”
Une satisfaction, however, will not last, as the former Feyenoord Rotterdam star announced a short‑term departure from the Phocaean city. “In January the squads are already formed, it is difficult. There is a greater chance that I will leave next summer,” he said, hinting at an imminent exit.
OM Clash sees Genesio steady side after Paixao’s early exit
Season start and future plans
Paixao’s start to the campaign has been delicate; he has not scored in six official outings. Yet he insists, “It is a privilege and a responsibility to wear a shirt with so much history. I have an additional responsibility. I am happy, Marseille is a great club. I love the way my family and I are treated here.”
The striker also hinted at a possible exit, stating, “In January the squads are already formed, it is difficult. There is a greater chance that I will leave next summer.” His comments suggest a short‑term plan to depart after the current season.
On Sunday evening at Troyes, Paixao showed his displeasure as Genesio recalled him to the bench after 87 minutes of frustration. In the ensuing press conference, Genesio said, “For me, it is nothing. It can happen. I think he was frustrated, perhaps frustrated to be taken off, perhaps frustrated with his match. But I can understand.”
He added that Paixao knows he can count on the coach and the group’s trust, and that nothing serious is looming. With the owner’s support and the striker’s commitment, Olympique de Marseille hope to restore themselves to the top of French football this season.