Igor Paixao’s Marseille future thrown into doubt

Marseille’s plans for the opening weeks of the season remain unsettled as the club considers a possible sale of Igor Paixao, its expected leading attacking threat. The Brazilian will miss Sunday’s Ligue 1 meeting with Monaco, while discussions over defender Leonardo Balerdi have also kept him out of the squad. Bruno Genesio therefore remains unable to define targets for the league or Europa League.

Three days before the transfer window closes, Marseille had made no signings, while the club’s leadership has acknowledged that a major sale could be required to address its financial position. President Stéphane Richard has said he wants to retain Paixao, but the club is attempting to meet its financial commitments while assembling a competitive team. Genesio has ruled out resigning at this stage but has expressed concern about the situation.

Paixao’s absence against Monaco is officially linked to a thigh problem rather than the transfer uncertainty. He played against Strasbourg despite the pain, has not trained since that match and is receiving treatment. Balerdi’s omission has a different explanation: he trained throughout the week, but talks concerning his situation are continuing. All other players were available for the Monaco trip.