Michael Murillo, Marseille’s understated pillar for club and country | OneFootball

Michael Murillo arrived at Marseille without fanfare, yet his steadiness now underpins Roberto De Zerbi’s defence.

Spotted at a crowded trial as a teenager, he rose from San Francisco to New York Red Bulls and Anderlecht before a rare move for a Panamanian into a top European league. According to GetFootballNewsFrance.com, his OM deal runs to 2028 and marked a milestone back home.

Now 29, he is Panama’s leading figure, with more than 80 caps, the 2018 World Cup and a Copa América quarter-final. “All Marseille matches are broadcast here. Any news about Amir is discussed,” said Panamanian journalist David Samudio Garay.

Signed as a right-back, he has covered the entire defence and pushed higher when needed. “I just want to support the team,” he said. In possession he profiles as a modern full-back, strong for passes attempted, progressive passing and attacking involvement, while offering aerial presence, and in 2025 he is arguably among Marseille’s and Ligue One’s most underrated.

“I’ve progressed a lot, tactically with and without the ball,” he admitted. “This manager has taught us many things.” Injuries and absences forced improvisation, and the summer arrivals of Timothy Weah, Facundo Medina and Benjamin Pavard again tested his place.

“My mentality is my main strength, 100%,” he said. Errors from Benjamin Pavard or Leonardo Balerdi, plus Medina’s fitness issues, saw Murillo regain a starting spot and deliver solid displays. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, a pivotal year awaits for club and country.

Source: GetFootballNewsFrance.com