OM: Himad Abdelli bounces back, Genesio approves

Oct 21, 2026

Struggling since his arrival at Marseille, Himad Abdelli seems to have finally found his rhythm under Bruno Genesio. After a difficult start, the Algerian international is now earning regular starts and gradually regaining his best form. His entourage and coach shed light on this transformation.

Himad Abdelli is bouncing back at Olympique de Marseille. Arriving last January in a challenging context, the Algerian midfielder experienced a particularly tumultuous first part of his adventure in the Phocaean city. Recruited to play under Roberto De Zerbi, he only played one match with the Italian coach, during the heavy defeat against PSG (0-5), before facing a difficult end to the season, notably marked by a conflict with Habib Beye and being sidelined.

With only two starts and seven appearances off the bench, Abdelli even lost his place for the World Cup. Despite this tough period, the player never considered leaving Marseille. His entourage shared this challenging experience with L’Équipe: “It’s impossible to have a more complicated start, but it has toughened him up mentally.”

The arrival of Bruno Genesio has since changed the situation. The new Olympique coach has placed his trust in him, while the Algerian midfielder is now earning regular starts and gradually regaining his effectiveness. He scored in the last two Ligue 1 matches, including against his former club Angers (5-2), and seems to have turned a corner.

His coach has also highlighted his performances: “He has the stamina to keep going. He brings technical mastery and recovers balls. We are satisfied with his start to the season.”

Now more influential in Marseille's midfield, Abdelli needs to confirm this momentum. However, the imminent return of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg could disrupt the situation and force Genesio to rethink his midfield combinations. A new challenge awaits the Algerian international, who aims to continue his progress and establish himself firmly in the Olympique starting eleven.

DZfoot