Amine Gouiri or Aubameyang? Daniel Riolo has made his choice | OneFootball

Amine Gouiri or Aubameyang? Daniel Riolo has given a decisive answer on who should be OM’s true starting striker

Amine Gouiri or Aubameyang? Daniel Riolo has made his choice

It was a historic night at the Vélodrome. After fourteen long years of waiting, Olympique de Marseille finally defeated their bitter rivals, Paris Saint-Germain, in the league. In an electric atmosphere, Roberto De Zerbi’s men struck first in the 5th minute thanks to Nayef Aguerd. The Moroccan defender, newly arrived from West Ham, headed in the game’s only goal, delivering a symbolic victory to the entire Marseille faithful—one that meant far more than just three points. This triumph breathes new life into OM, who had endured a rocky start to the season but are now back on track with this long-awaited feat, their first since 2011.

While the collective performance was widely praised, it was Roberto De Zerbi’s bold decision that stole the spotlight: the surprise inclusion of Amine Gouiri up front, leaving Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on the bench. The Algerian international seized his chance with a disciplined display, tirelessly making runs and putting in the hard yards. Substituted in the 79th minute, he left the pitch to a standing ovation from the Marseille crowd, well aware of his crucial contribution to this prestigious victory.

The debate over OM’s attacking line is now in full swing. Should Amine Gouiri keep his place, or should Aubameyang be handed back the keys? For pundit Daniel Riolo, the answer is clear. “I liked Gouiri’s game. He fought hard and was always available. He should be the starting striker,” he declared, suggesting that Aubameyang no longer has the same impact as before. According to Riolo, last season already proved that Gouiri can take on a major role, especially by helping OM qualify for the Champions League.

This stance reflects a growing trend: Marseille fans are keen to see Gouiri established as the team’s main striker. His energy, mobility, and ability to blend into the collective have won them over—whereas Aubameyang is still struggling to rediscover his best form. For De Zerbi, the dilemma is clear: should he rely on the experience of the former Arsenal frontman, or nurture the emergence of an Algerian international who seems destined for a central role?

Whatever happens next, the victory over Paris will go down as a turning point in OM’s season—and perhaps as the true beginning of Amine Gouiri’s rise in Marseille.