Leonardo Balerdi bids farewell to Marseille after six seasons

Leonardo Balerdi has brought his six-season spell at Olympique Marseille to an end with an emotional farewell message after moving to AS Roma. The 27-year-old defender has joined the Italian club on loan, with an option to buy, closing his Marseille chapter for now.

Balerdi thanked Marseille’s supporters, teammates, coaching staffs, directors and club employees in a message published on Instagram. He described the city and Olympique Marseille as his home and said they would always hold an important place in his heart. The centre-back also recognised that his time at the club had not been perfect throughout, but said those difficulties were part of what made the experience special.

The defender praised the supporters for their continued encouragement and for the role they play in pushing the team forward. He also highlighted the atmosphere around the Vélodrome and the deep place Marseille occupies in local life. Balerdi said he was departing with a clear conscience, convinced that he had given everything physically and mentally for the club until the final moment.

Balerdi joined Marseille from Borussia Dortmund in the 2020-21 season and returned permanently the following campaign after an earlier loan spell. He leaves the club as a centre-back whose current market value is listed at €18 million. His move to Roma now gives him a new setting after six seasons in Marseille, while his farewell made clear the personal connection he developed with the club and its city.