Nayef Aguerd had to wait until deadline day to complete a move from West Ham United to Marseille. The defender has been starring for the Ligue 1 side after playing five matches so far.
Saturday’s edition of La Provence, a newspaper local to Marseille, looks at the 29-year-old’s performances and an insight into his arrival
De Zerbi had prioritised strengthening the defence and Marseille sporting director Medhi Benatia ties with the Morocco international favoured Marseille to sign him from West Ham
The duo played together for the national team and have maintained regular contact over the years.
Earlier this week, the defender said he was in constant contact with Benatia over his move from West Ham to Marseille. This made it easier for him swap the Hammers for the Ligue 1 club.
On October 6th, Benatia said De Zerbi was eager to have him at his disposal. He said the manager asked him to wrap up this deal. The Italian coach has now backed this up and La Provence have relayed his comments.
De Zerbi now shares his satisfaction and joy over the French club bringing Aguerd from West Ham.
“When Medhi told me about it, we were on a plane to Miami [last May to see Frank McCourt]. I couldn’t wait to land so he could contact him and close the deal quickly. It shows how much time we’ve spent on him,” he said.
“In training, I discovered a player who’s even stronger than what I’d seen on video. He understands things before they’re told to him. Like Pavard and Emerson, he’s already a leader.”