PROFILE | Michael Murillo – Marseille’s unsung hero | OneFootball

Michael Amir Murillo did not arrive in Marseille with hype. Spotted as a teenager during a crowded scouting trial in Panama, he worked his way through San Francisco FC, to New York Red Bulls, and then Anderlecht before making a rare leap for a Panamanian player into one of Europe’s elite leagues. His move to OM, extended until 2028, marked a historic moment for football in his country.

At 29, Murillo is now Panama’s undisputed reference point. With more than 80 international caps, a World Cup appearance in 2018 and a Copa América quarter-final to his name, he carries the weight of national expectation. As Panamanian journalist David Samudio Garay noted, “All Marseille matches are broadcast here. Any news about Amir is discussed.” In a nation traditionally dominated by baseball, Murillo has become an unlikely football icon.

On the pitch, his value to Marseille lies in reliability and adaptability. Initially recruited as a right-back, Murillo has played across the defensive line and even higher up the pitch when required. Under Roberto De Zerbi, that versatility has been essential. “I’ve played a lot of positions,” Murillo explained. “I just want to support the team.”

Statistically, his profile reflects a modern full-back comfortable in possession. Murillo ranks highly among his positional peers for passes attempted, progressive passing and involvement in attacking phases, while still offering aerial security and physical presence. In 2025, he is arguably one of Marseille’s and Ligue 1’s most underrated players.

There to pick up the pieces

“I’ve progressed a lot, tactically with and without the ball,” he admitted. “This manager has taught us many things.” That education has come amid adversity, with injuries and defensive absences often forcing makeshift solutions at the back. With the summer additions of Timothy Weah, Facundo Medina, and Benjamin Pavard, the Panamanian’s position looked once again under threat. 

But if Murillo knows one thing, it is how to fight for his place. “My mentality is my main strength, 100%,” he said. If the summer brought a different status, the latter months have seen him claw back to prominence. Any slip-up from Benjamin Pavard or Leonardo Balerdi, and Medina’s injury troubles have seen Murillo reinstated in the starting XI – where he has put in solid performances. 

Murillo may not make headlines, but his consistency, adaptability and mindset have made him indispensable. For Marseille, and for an entire country watching from afar, he represents how far determination can carry you. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Murillo is set for a huge upcoming year both at club and international level.

GFFN | George Boxall