Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi: ‘I expect a strong replacement for Elye Wahi.’ | OneFootball

Olympique de Marseille manager Roberto de Zerbi today spoke in his pre-match press conference ahead of facing OGC Nice this weekend in a Mediterranean derby clash at the Allianz Riviera. After announcing the likely departure of midfielder Ismaël Koné (22), the Italian tactician also spoke about another imminent departure for striker Elye Wahi (24).Wahi signed for Marseille in the summer for a fee of €25m plus add-ons from RC Lens, but he is set to leave the club after only four months with Les Olympiens. “He’s another player I’m very attached to,” said De Zerbi at the press conference transcribed by RMC Sport. “You reach a certain point where you have to make courageous decisions. Wahi knows why the last few weeks have gone the way they have. He’s strong, I don’t change my mind. He sent me a very long message this morning. We’re working, we have to make decisions, make choices.”

Around 24 hours ago, L’Équipe reported that OM and Frankfurt reached an agreement over a €26m plus add-ons move to join the Bundesliga side. Today, the Frenchman is expected to fly to Germany to complete his medical with Eintracht. De Zerbi was confident that the club can find a replacement for Wahi this window, with Neal Maupay the current chosen starter ahead of 17-year-old Robinio Vaz who made a promising Ligue 1 debut last weekend to much excitement among OM supporters. “We are OM. If Wahi leaves, a striker will come. That’s what we want. Everyone has kept their word so far. If Wahi leaves, a strong player will arrive. It’s difficult in winter, but I expect a strong replacement.”GFFN | George Boxall