Nayef Aguerd brings authority to high-flying Marseille | OneFootball

Marseille’s summer signing Nayef Aguerd has added authority to a rebuilt defence. The 29-year-old Morocco international returned to Ligue 1 with Premier League, La Liga and World Cup pedigree. According to GetFootballNewsFrance.com, he has quickly become central to Roberto De Zerbi’s plans.

September brought a defining moment. Aguerd headed in after four minutes of Le Classique, giving Marseille their first home league win over PSG since 2011.

De Zerbi plays him left-sided in a back three or five, enabling a high press with security. Early on, his work with fellow returnee Benjamin Pavard steadied a vulnerable unit. Aguerd has said the role is different, with fresh ideas each match and a demand to adapt alongside Pavard, Medina and CJ.

Across the last 365 days he ranks in the 92nd percentile among centre-backs for passes attempted, completing 89.9%. He also rates at the 75th percentile for progressive passes and 76th for aerial duels won.

De Zerbi has underlined the value of experienced signings who understand quickly, and Aguerd has added authority in the dressing room. Even while dealing with Pubalgia late in 2025, the coach often preferred him to club captain Leonardo Balerdi.

Aguerd remains a defensive leader for Morocco and will aim for a first AFCON title on home soil this winter. The workload is a concern, yet his big-tournament and Premier League experience has translated smoothly to Marseille’s demanding environment.

Source: GetFootballNewsFrance.com